Free Trade

According to the Constitution, Congress has the power “To regulate Commerce with foreign Nations,” and “to promote the progress of science and useful arts, by securing” copyright and patent protection for its citizens. These reasonable responsibilities and costs of federal government can be supported by either taxes on American citizens or by tariffs on foreign companies. Duties, imposts, and excises are legitimate revenue-raising tools to fund them.

The goals of US trade policies should be to eliminate US trade deficits, preserve our ability to manufacture products vital to our economy, and promote the economic interests and welfare of our citizens. Our trade agreements should promote reciprocity.

‘Dakotans for Honesty in Politics’ opposes the unconstitutional transfer of Congress’ authority over U.S. trade policy to foreign agencies. ‘Dakotans for Honesty in Politics’ supports the withdrawal of the United States from the World Trade Organization (WTO), North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT), and any other foreign trade agreements and entities that assume authority for policies affecting economic resources of American citizens.

We support the development of individual trade agreements with nations according to the practices and performance of those countries. All imported products, including food, should bear a label stating Country of Origin.

We oppose the import of products made by child and slave labor.

U.S. industrial policy should maintain domestic sources for all products procured by the U.S. government.

Trade negotiators should agree to a life time ban on serving as a lobbyist for any domestic or foreign interest.