Hearing of the Senate Finance Committee - Confirmation of U.S. Trade Representative Nominee Ron Kirk

Hearing of the Senate Finance Committee - Confirmation of U.S. Trade Representative Nominee Ron Kirk

U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, a member of the Senate Finance Committee, today introduced Ron Kirk, the President's nominee to serve as U.S. Trade Representative, at his confirmation hearing before the Senate Finance Committee. Sen. Cornyn issued the following statement in support of Kirk's nomination:

"I was pleased to have the opportunity to introduce and support Ron Kirk as President Obama's nominee for United States Trade Representative. As Mayor of Dallas, Ron Kirk saw how open markets create new opportunities for the people of Texas. Mayor Kirk's leadership in the late 1990s helped re-energize the local economy. By 2007, the Dallas-Fort Worth area was exporting more than $22 billion in goods and services to foreign markets. I believe President Obama chose the right man for this job.

"Like all Americans, I was very troubled by the revelation of Ron's tax mistakes. I spoke to him about this, and I earnestly believe he made mistakes he deeply regrets and will not allow a similar lapse to occur again. Despite these mistakes, Ron Kirk is the man for the job. Mayor Kirk may not be the first choice of those who oppose free trade, but he's the first choice of the President - and a good choice for American exporters and consumers.

"At such a volatile time for our nation's economy, the role of U.S. Trade Representative is more important than ever. Texans can be proud of this nomination, because we understand the critical role that exporting plays in improving our economy and creating jobs. We cannot afford to have a protectionist as U.S. Trade Representative. I am confident Ron will help open global markets and create more opportunities for us all."

Sen. Cornyn's introduction of Ron Kirk at the Senate Finance Committee hearing, as prepared for delivery, can be found below:

• Thank you, Mr. Chairman. It is my honor to introduce President Obama's nominee for United States Trade Representative: Mayor Ron Kirk.
• In the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, Congress recognized that our Nation needed to speak with one voice to our trade partners around the globe. President Kennedy appointed America's first chief trade negotiator … President Ford elevated the position to cabinet rank, and Congress has worked with many Administrations to strengthen the ability of the United States Trade Representative to enforce existing trade agreements - and open new markets for American workers, farmers, and investors.
• Mayor Kirk would lead USTR during the most challenging global financial crisis in its history. The World Bank predicts that the global economy will shrink this year for the first time in more than six decades. People in many nations are suffering, and calls for new trade barriers grow louder.
• The United States Trade Representative must speak clearly and calmly against protectionism. He must show how open markets can renew global prosperity - and lift millions in the developing world out of poverty.
• I believe President Obama chose the right man for this job. As Mayor of Dallas, Ron Kirk saw how open markets create new opportunities for our people. He led trade missions to other nations, he recruited foreign investors, and he supported the North American Free Trade Agreement.
• Mayor Kirk's leadership in the late 1990s helped re-energize the local economy. By 2007, the Dallas-Fort Worth area was exporting more than $22 billion of goods and services to foreign markets.
• Like other members of the Committee, last week I became aware of concerns about Mayor Kirk's payment of income taxes. I thank Committee staff for their diligence. I take these concerns very seriously. Administration officials, especially those of cabinet rank, must pay their taxes. It's as simple as that.
• I met with Mayor Kirk last week to express these concerns. I appreciate what he said to me in private - and what I expect he will say to this Committee today - to address them. They deserve the Committee's attention.
• Despite these concerns, I support Mayor Kirk's nomination to be United States Trade Representative.
• Mayor Kirk is not the first choice of those who oppose free trade, but he's the first choice of the President - and a good choice for American exporters and investors.
• The continuing global financial crisis demands a strong leader at USTR - and Mayor Kirk will fill one of the many top positions in the Administration that - to my dismay - are still waiting to be filled.
• Mr. Chairman: I congratulate Mayor Kirk on his nomination. And I am proud to introduce my fellow Texan to you - and to this Committee.

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