The United States has not always gotten the best deal when negotiating for "free trade" with other countries. That's why each new trade agreement must be considered individually by Congress to make sure it is fair to America.

 

In 2007, representatives of Panama and the United States signed a free trade agreement establishing a commitment, subject to Congressional approval, to more open rules on trade and investment between the two countries.  The Panama Free Trade Agreement is on hold because of the country's poor enforcement of labor rights and its reputation as a haven for offshore tax evasion.

 

In the past, I have voted for some trade agreements and against others depending on the terms of each one. My staff and I are following this closely.