Washington, D.C. - Today U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02) announced his opposition to the Dominican Republic - Central American Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA). Larsen issued the following statement regarding his position:
 
“I support free trade and have voted for past trade agreements because trade is an important spoke on the wheel of U.S. economic policy. Unfortunately, the Bush Administration has ignored the rest of the economic policy wheel and focused only on trade.

“In doing so, this administration has left us with an inactive economic competitiveness policy that we need in order to ensure that our businesses and workers can compete in the new global markets that trade agreements create.

“Instead of supporting funding for programs that invest in U.S. workers and our ability to create internationally competitive products and technologies, this administration has slashed funding for research and development, science, technology, small business and education programs.

“Because of this and other concerns, I will oppose CAFTA when it comes to the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives.

“As a Member of Congress from one of the most trade dependent states in the country, I know firsthand the critical importance of trade to our workers and businesses. I also know that it is critically important for us to make sure that our workers and businesses can compete and prosper in these new markets.

“This administration’s active trade policy is dangerously coupled with a dormant economic competitiveness policy that is taking us backwards in our ability to compete.

“I will continue my efforts in Congress to ensure that we develop a sound and balanced trade policy that benefits our workers and our businesses in the short and long-term.

“I will work hard to ensure that we are making investments in our workforce and programs that will ensure our children can become the next generation of American scientists, engineers, farmers, teachers and business leaders.”