WASHINGTON, D.C.— Congressman Darin LaHood (R-IL) today joined President Donald Trump for the signing of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Following the ceremony, Congressman LaHood released the below statement:
“It was an honor to join President Trump this morning for the signing of the USMCA. Trade with Mexico and Canada is vital for Illinois, and USMCA is a win for our farmers, manufacturers, small businesses, and workers. In central and west-central Illinois, our producers rely on the open market and free flow of goods to remain competitive in the global economy. USMCA maintains that important relationship, provides needed certainty, and will bolster our strong economy.
“Today is a victory for America, and I applaud President Trump and U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer for their efforts to strengthen North American free trade. On top of major wins – like the phase one China deal, Japan agreement, and repeal of WOTUS – USMCA will continue to spur optimism and generate economic growth across Illinois and rural America.”
USMCA is a win for America:
- USCMA will:
- Bring over $68 billion in new economic activity
- Add 176,000 new American jobs
- Add 76,000 new American automotive sector jobs
- For the first time, Canada’s markets will be opened for American dairy, wheat, chicken, eggs, and turkey producers to sell their products
- USMCA establishes the United States as a leader on digital trade and sets the standard for future trade agreements with a new digital trade chapter
- Passed over 24 years ago, it was time to modernize NAFTA into the 21st-century and expand market access for farmers and ranchers
Background:
As a member of the House Ways and Means Committee and USMCA Whip Team, Congressman LaHood played an integral role in modernizing the North American trade relationship, regularly engaging with the Trump Administration and his colleagues on the negotiations.
For Illinois, Mexico and Canada represent our two largest export markets, accounting for nearly 40 percent of all exports. Access to the markets to our north and south is critical for Illinois agriculture producers and manufacturers, and Rep. LaHood will remain a strong advocate for them on the Ways and Means Committee.
Related:
ep. LaHood Applauds Senate Passage of USMCA
Rep. LaHood Statement on USMCA Agreement
Rep. LaHood Votes to Send USMCA to the House Floor for Full Consideration
Rep. LaHood Statement on USMCA Agreement
Rep. LaHood Statement on the USMCA Signing
Rep. LaHood Applauds Trilateral Agreement to Replace NAFTA
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