Video of Congressman Sherman in Action
Washington, D.C. - Congressman Brad Sherman followed-up on a brief conversation with President Obama on Monday evening and on a letter he sent Tuesday, sharing his concerns about a proposed communique to be issued by the G-20 nations and its impact on congressional discretion.
Sherman expressed concerns that language in the leaked communique would be used to limit the ability of Congress to take action to stimulate the American economy, and could limit the ability of the U.S. to retaliate against the unfair trade practices of other countries, such as dumping.
Sherman is also concerned that the G-20 will push for increased “trade finance” funding, which could lead to a situation where the American worker’s taxes could be used to fund imports into the United States to support the “global supply chain.” Sherman urged that the President avoid making commitments that would harm American workers or limit the ability of Congress to pass legislation protecting the health and safety of Americans, as these measures will be labeled as “protectionist” by some trading partners. In particular, Sherman voiced concern about any action taken at the G-20, which would limit the ability of the U.S. to assist its auto industry.
Sherman is the Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee Subcommittee on Terrorism, Nonproliferation, and Trade.
Sherman’s letter to President Obama is available here.
