The dollar has plunged; the trade deficit is reaching record highs; and labor groups complain about losing high-paying jobs to Asia. This confluence of events has created an opening for those who object to US membership in the World Trade Organization (WTO). That membership is subject to the review of Congress every five years and happens to be up for consideration this year. WTO opponents acknowledge that Congress will almost certainly vote to stay in the organization, which administers trade agreements for its 148 member countries. But they hope to use the platform to spur a broader debate about US trade policies and the efficacy of the WTO. Rep. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) has introduced a bill that calls for WTO withdrawal. Backers come from across the political spectrum, from Sanders, a liberal Independent from Vermont, to Rep. Ron Paul, a libertarian Texas Republican. When the House voted on the issue in 2000, 56 members voted to leave the WTO. The vote count may be higher this time, but not high enough for the bill to pass.  American Wire Producers Association |
