by Don Ogden
In an unconscionable and sleazy effort to use the terrorist attacks on the US to further his unpopular agenda, Representative Bill Thomas (R-CA), chair of the powerful House Ways and Means Committee, is pushing for quick approval of "fast track" legislation.
One of the oldest scams in the grab bag of political tricks is ramming through unpopular legislation when everyone's attention is averted. War, or the perception of war, presents the perfect platform from which to launch some of the most ill-advised bills which, under normal conditions, would receive at least some scrutiny. Here in the US, since the tragedy of September 11, we have witnessed some members of Congress using the present crisis and its patriotic trappings as a means to move their favorite projects to a speedy vote. Wrapped in the flag, they are quick to remind their colleagues of the needs for a nation "at war". Of course, to vote against such legislation is to put one's allegiance into question. It's the oldest trick in the book.
In an unconscionable and sleazy effort to use the terrorist attacks on the US to further his unpopular agenda, Representative Bill Thomas (R-CA), chair of the powerful House Ways and Means Committee, is pushing for quick approval of "fast track" legislation. Fast track would give President Bush the authority to negotiate broad trade agreements, including the proposed Free Trade Area of the Americas. Under fast track, Congress would have only limited time to debate proposed treaties and would be restricted to a simple up-down vote without the possibility of offering amendments.
Before the national tragedy on September 11, Republicans floated fast track, but decided against introducing legislation because, by their own count, they lacked sufficient votes to pass it. Now Representative Thomas is trying to quickly push through this unpopular legislation while the rest of the country grieves for the loss of 5,000 fellow citizens. Even cynical Washington observers, accustomed to the machinations of self-serving politicians, find the actions of Rep. Thomas reprehensible. Thomas may introduce fast track legislation as soon as the week of Sept.24th.
The Mexican Solidarity Network is asking activists to call Rep. Thomas at 202-225-2915 and tell him that this is not the time to introduce divisive legislation on fast track. In addition, they are asking for people to call their own Representatives (Capitol switchboard 202-224-3121) and ask them to publicly denounce the cynical and inappropriate actions of Rep.Thomas.
For more information or to join the struggle against the FTAA, contact the Alliance for Responsible Trade at msn@mexicosolidarity.org.