Bachmann Supports Job Growth Through Free Trade

Statement

Congresswoman Michele Bachmann (MN-06) showed her commitment to strengthening our nation's economy today by voting in favor of the free trade agreements with Colombia, Panama and South Korea. A long-time supporter of the agreements, Bachmann said:

"The free trade agreements with Colombia, Panama and South Korea, negotiated more than four years ago, received a long-awaited stamp of approval today by Congress. These agreements will create hundreds of thousands of American jobs and spur economic growth across a wide span of industries, without cost to taxpayers.

"Exports are necessary to a strong economy. Last year U.S. exports were 12.7% of GDP and I am confident that number will rise because of the Colombia, Panama and South Korea free trade agreements. Likewise, Minnesota's Sixth Congressional District has more than 27,000 jobs currently supported by exports and I look forward to witnessing the positive impact from these agreements on the jobs in my district.

"My long-standing support of the free trade agreements was reinforced when I met with Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos in Colombia in February, and again when I discussed trade in my office with South Korean Ambassador Han Duk-soo in June. Both the countries of Colombia and South Korea are eager for the implementation of these free trade agreements."

The Colombia Free Trade Agreement passed by a vote of 262--167, the Panama Free Trade Agreement passed by a vote of 300--129 and the South Korea Free Trade Agreement passed 278-151.

Source