free trade

China vs. the House of Representatives

Sep 30, 2010
Although the measure has almost no chance of passing the Senate, the House voted 348-79 to give President Obama the power to put tariffs on all Chinese imports. The legislative hissy fit is clearly intended to sate economically vulnerable voters who view China as a jobs threat.
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Bill Puts Brakes on Mexican Trucks

Mar 11, 2009
President Obama's $410 billion spending bill may paradoxically end funding for a cross-border trucking program between Mexico and the U.S. Critics of the program cite safety issues around Mexican trucks, while Mexican officials decry protectionism as policies surrounding the NAFTA trade agreement continue to fall apart.

Rich Nations Truant on Climate Pledges

Feb 20, 2009
Analysis is finding that, amid the historic neglect that rich nations show toward the poor, developing countries have received less than 10 percent of the funds promised to them by the developed world. This comes as countries in the global south struggle to respond to the myriad concerns about global warming.

Second Wind for WTO Talks?

Jul 25, 2008
While supporters of the much troubled Doha Round of the World Trade Organization believe talks may have found their second wind, only the world's largest economies seem to be breathing. The form of capitalism supported by these countries is resisted by poorer nations, which rightly fear WTO deregulations would disproportionately benefit the wealthy.

Bush Vetoes Farm Bill

May 21, 2008
Without batting an ironic eye, President Bush has vetoed a $289-billion farm bill, claiming the legislation gives too much money to wealthy farmers. The bill includes steps to spur biofuel use and would expand nutrition programs to help poor Americans buy food. The Democratic Congress is expected to override the veto.