WASHINGTON (Sept.12, 2009) — The United Steelworkers (USW) union is hailing President Obama's decision to impose duties on consumer tire imports from China, saying the President's decision “struck a blow for restoring confidence in the rule of law.”
“For far too long, workers across this country have been victimized by bad trade policies and government inaction,” USW International President Leo W. Gerard said.
“Today, President Obama made clear that he will enforce America's trade laws and stand with American workers. The President sent the message that we expect others to live by the rules, just as we do.”
Mr. Gerard said China and “its agents here in the U.S. tried every trick in the book to protect their interests. They hired former government officials and paid them countless dollars to lobby their case. They paid for trumped-up studies to support their efforts and used front groups to lobby their cause and to influence politicians.”
The USW called the decision a “better deal for hardworking American men and women and the millions of manufacturers, farmers and ranchers, and service providers who ask only for a chance to compete on fair terms. It also means China and other countries can no longer assume they can engage in predatory trade practices with impunity.”