Today, Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02), a co-chair of the New Democrat Coalition Trade Task Force, released the following statement after voting for the United States – Mexico – Canada Trade Agreement (USMCA):

“After carefully reviewing the agreement and hearing from my constituents in the Second District, I decided to vote for the USMCA.

“Today’s passage of the USMCA is a win for workers, families and jobs in Washington state, the most trade-dependent state in the United States. In Snohomish County, 60 percent of all jobs are tied to trade. 

“USMCA reflects priorities I fought for, like strong labor and environmental standards and strict enforcement rules that will help workers and businesses compete globally. I am also pleased the administration used provisions negotiated by the Obama administration to modernize NAFTA for digital trade and the 21^st century economy.

“Making it easier for local businesses to sell their goods and services abroad is a key way to help create jobs here at home. Each year, Washington state exports nearly $12.5 billion in goods and services to Mexico and Canada, the state’s second- and third-largest trade partners after China. The final agreement provides a boost to Washington state farmers, expanding dairy farmers’ access to Canadian markets and preserving existing market access in Mexico for Washington’s apple, cherry and pear farmers. The agreement also addresses digital trade and the 21^st century economy, providing a boost to the 240,000 Washingtonians who work in the growing digital sector.

“Thanks to Democrats, the improved USMCA has strong enforcement, as well as critical victories on prescription drug costs and environmental protections. However, this is not a “set it and forget it” agreement. Congress and future administrations must use the enforcement mechanisms and protections to make this agreement work for American workers.

“Thank you to Speaker Pelosi, Vice Chair Sewell and my colleagues on the NDC Trade Task Force for your work to resolve outstanding issues to update NAFTA, protect and grow jobs and move the economy forward.”

To read more about Democratic improvements to the USMCA, click here.

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