Hoffa Statement on Senate Fast Track Vote

Teamsters General President Says Senate's Approval Is Not The End Of The Fight

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International Brotherhood of Teamsters

May 22, 2015, 10:09 ET

WASHINGTON, May 22, 2015 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The following is the official statement of Teamsters General President Jim Hoffa in response to the Senate's approval of a fast track bill today that will make it easier for bad trade deals like the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) to move through Congress.

"The Teamsters are taking a stand against fast track because it's right for U.S. workers and right for this country. That doesn't change because of this disappointing outcome in the Senate that puts the powerful ahead of regular people trying to make ends meet.

"As Congress heads home for Memorial Day, the Teamsters and our fair trade allies will continue our efforts to educate Democrats and Republicans in the House about how fast track is the wrong track for America. We will meet with members in their district offices and let them know they are jeopardizing the livelihoods of their constituents if they approve this measure.

"Fast track is the vehicle that will allow the still-secretive TPP to sail through Capitol Hill with little debate and no chance of amendments. It will jeopardize the U.S. economy by shipping jobs overseas and lowering wages at home. It will hurt democracy by making it possible for foreign corporations to pursue the overturning of laws they don't like.

"This is not about being against trade. It is about sticking up for what America is supposed to stand for – a place where an honest worker can earn an honest wage that supports a family. Lawmakers shouldn't be turning their back on those they are supposed to represent."

Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.4 million hardworking men and women throughout the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico. Visit www.teamster.org for more information. Follow us on Twitter @Teamsters and "like" us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/teamsters.

Contact:
Galen Munroe, (202) 624-6911

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SOURCE International Brotherhood of Teamsters