The North American Free Trade Agreement - 1162 Words

Patrick Kenney A43713662 EC 440 Writing Assignment Illinois and The North American Free Trade Agreement The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) was passed in 1993 under President Clinton but purposed under President H.W. Bush. The agreement was first discussed in June of 1991 and included the United States, Canada, and Mexico. NAFTA sought to create a trading bloc, which through free trade and the elimination of tariffs would see economic growth. While all of the countries sought to benefit from NAFTA the United States and Mexico sought to gain the most, while each in different ways. The United States would enjoy increased investment opportunities and greater trade through a new growing market in Mexico. Mexico on the other†¦show more content†¦Because of this divide NAFTA was often thought of in short-term effect on the constituents employment rather then the long-term possibilities. This can be seen through the difference in the votes of the Senators, both of whom voted in favor of NAFTA while the Representatives were divided. Curiously the majority of the oppositi on came from Democratic Representatives from Chicago, which provide the best perspective into the opposition of NAFTA. While all of the Republicans representing Illinois voted in favor of NAFTA, not all Democrats voted along party lines, with both senators voting in support. This will provide the best insight into the principles behind their choices and how they were benefitting their voters. Congresswomen Evans of Rock Island openly comments about how she is greatly opposed NAFTA saying â€Å"The good-paying jobs that are the basis of our industrial might . . . would be severely undermined†¨Ã¢â‚¬  (Hazard, 1993). Representative Thomas Ewing of Pontiac sees things a little differently, believing that if the tariffs are removed and there is greater exportation, naturally there will be more jobs and employment. Ewing however acknowledges the influence that the Labor Unions have saying, â€Å"If labor s right, we shouldn t have NAFTA.† Ewing voted for NAFTA, ultimately deciding that the overall gains would outweigh some of the job loss (Hazard, 1993). One