WASHINGTON (AP) — Senate Democrats have dealt President Barack Obama a stinging setback on trade by blocking efforts to begin full-blown debate on his initiatives.
All but one Senate Democrat defied the president Tuesday by voting to prevent consideration of his request for “fast track” trade authority. Such authority would let Obama present trade agreements that Congress could ratify or reject, but not amend.
Proponents needed 60 votes to thwart a Democratic filibuster, but managed only 52 in the 100-member Senate.
Obama’s supporters say they will try again, possibly starting in the House. But Tuesday’s vote highlighted the deep divide between Obama and the many congressional Democrats who say trade deals hurt U.S. jobs.
Democrats said Republicans must put more trade measures into the legislative package.
Copyright 2015 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Score a BIG 1 for Elizabeth!
A word to the wise to all potential 2016 Dem contenders: Keep Elizabeth Warren on your side!
Wonder how the GOTPs are receiving the news…
Looks like Ron Wyden Not Liz is calling the shots here.(“Eight pro-trade Senate Democrats emerged from a strategy meeting at 1 to declare their opposition to the motion to take up the bill.”) New York Times.
I must admit that I have not kept up too much with the details of the trade deal so I’m not sure what to think about this. I find it troubling that a candidate who only got 53% of the vote in MA against Scott Brown while Pres. Obama got 61% of there,would seemingly have so much clout. Seems manufactured.