Senator Roberts Statement on USMCA's Entry Into Force

Press Release

U.S. Senator Pat Roberts (R-Kan.) today released the following statement as the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) enters into force.

"This long-awaited day brings much needed certainty to farmers, ranchers, and business owners across America, who can continue to build upon the strong partnership we have with Mexico and Canada," said Sen. Roberts. "I thank Ambassador Lighthizer, as well as Ambassador Doud, for their perseverance in finalizing and improving this trade deal. I hope this success continues as the administration works to conclude trade agreements in other countries around the world."

From his post as both Chairman of the Agriculture Committee and as a senior member of the Finance Committee, which has jurisdiction on trade, Roberts has long been outspoken on the importance of strong trading relationships and access to foreign markets for American-made goods, especially agriculture.

The USMCA updated the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). Senator Roberts consulted regularly with the administration throughout negotiations on behalf of farmers, ranchers, and growers. Roberts continually echoed, "do no harm" to agriculture, a motto straight from farm country.

Roberts chaired two Agriculture Committee hearings and participated in multiple Finance Committee hearings on USMCA.

Senator Roberts voted in favor of the USMCA, which passed the Senate in January on an 89-10 vote. Roberts also stood beside President Donald Trump at the White House signing ceremony for the USMCA in January.

Senator Roberts also established the "Trade Tuesday" web series, which gave a platform to the many Kansans who voiced their support for the USMCA. Over the course of several months, Roberts compiled 14 interviews consistently urging the USMCA's final passage. Click here to watch all videos from the "Trade Tuesday" series.

Source