On Wednesday, Vice President Mike Pence made a stop at Manning Farms in Waukee. He was joined by Senators Grassley and Ernst, as well as Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds. The message to the audience was clear; the United States ? Mexico ? Canada Agreement (USMCA) needs to be passed in Congress.
Senator Joni Ernst led off the addresses with a reminder of just how much time has passed since the leaders of all three countries signed the trade pact. Ernst says it is time for Congress to act.
Iowa?s Senior Senator Chuck Grassley reminded the crowd about his discussions with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and his confidence that she wants to see the deal get done. However, he doesn?t feel we should be waiting any longer.
Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds addressed the audience and told the crowd Iowans have a strong work ethic and want to see the same from Congress.
Vice President Pence took the stage and told those in attendance he was here to just talk about the trade pact. He told the audience he was here to, ?turn up the heat?, and push for the USMCA to be passed this year.
Pence talked about the agreement signed this week with Japan and how the momentum has restarted talks with China. This includes more Chinese purchases of agricultural products.
Vice President Pence said this momentum can continue if Congress can get the USMCA passed.
Pence highlighted some numbers from the International Trade Commission about the USMCA trade pact. He also discussed how much of Iowa is affected by trade with Mexico and Canada.
The Vice President told the crowd if U.S. farmers and businesses are put on a level playing field, there is nobody in the world they cannot compete with.
Pence echoed a sentiment we have long discussed when he said it is important for farmers to talk to their elected representatives and the leaders in Congress to help get the trade pact across the finish line.
