America has the strongest economy and the most productive workforce in the world because we aren t afraid to compete in world markets. The American consumer pays through higher prices, Dreier said.
Protectionism is fools gold.
Though he opposed the bill, Dreier managed the rule allowing it to proceed. He noted that although much of the Leadership also opposed the steel bill, their commitment to the majority rule principles of the House of Representatives led to the bill being considered. It s unfortunate that President Clinton has not been able to lead his party s legislators out of their protectionist past, Dreier added, saying that the steel bill vote clearly shows the Democratic Party has not left its anti-trade roots. President Clinton has threatened a veto of the legislation. America s path lies in competing and winning internationally, like my home state of California has done.