GOP to block Commerce nominees until free trade agreements done

[tabatha]

From NBC's Kelly O'Donnell
Republican senators have just announced that they will block the confirmation of a new Commerce Secretary - or any commerce related positions - until Democrats move on free trade agreements for Columbia and Panama.

Forty-four GOP senators signed on to a letter to Majority Leader Harry Reid Monday, vowing to hold up the nominations until "the President submits both agreements to Congress for approval and commits to signing implementing legislation into law."

"The time for delay is over," they write. "Colombia and Panama are strong democratic allies in Latin America and both have undertaken serious and meaningful reforms, many of which directly address the concerns of those who want to further delay these agreements. Yet the administration continues to move the goalpost by withholding clear direction and not providing a specific timetable for implementation."

The previous Commerce Secretary, Gary Locke, was just appointed by Obama to be the next ambassador to China, replacing possible GOP presidential hopeful Jon Huntsman.

http://firstread.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2011/03/14/6268533-gop-to-block-commerce-nominees-until-free-trade-agreements-done

Do they have to do everything with extortion?

[msongs]

1. repubs know weaklings when they see them nt

[tabatha]

2. They do this with everyone, no matter who.

[Lasher]

3. This has recess appointment written all over it.

But Obama won't do it. He wants more free trade agreements, and loves it when the GOP gives him cover just like this.

[OHdem10]

4. Get those Free Trade Agreements done so we can lose more

jobs.

Remember Bill Clinton and NAFTA. He carries
the blame even though the Republicans pushed it.

Free Trade good for Wall St., not Mainstreet.

Fair Trade is necessary if they want to help Mainstreet.

Wall Street Rules. They will get their Free Trade.

[AndyTiedye]

5. I Don't Think the Main "Exports" From Those Countries

would be covered by any trade agreements.

[nykym]

6. If the Dems

had any balls they would say NO FREE TRADE AGREEMENTS till the confirmations are approved. But I guess they have too much invested in the trade agreements that it would be unprofitable to take this stand. And yes I know it would cause a stalemate but what have we got now?

[jillan]

7. This is one of those times when it would be helpful to know how to frame a debate... Dems?!?

The ball is in your court.