Patronizing speeches about the middle class don't make up for fucking us with TPP

[cheapdate]

82. Oh, that's not true at all.

Proponents of the TPP, and "free trade" in general, make familiar arguments and appeals -- based on the supposed, inherent virtues of trade liberalization, a "rising tide lifts all boats", etc. etc, and the uncritical presumption of the inevitability of globalization.

The arguments are there in the preambles and introductions that accompany any official presentation of the agreement.

Proponents can make easy assertions about "partnerships", "opportunities", "new markets for American goods", etc., etc.

We have the GATT, the IMF, the World Bank, CAFTA, NAFTA, MFN trading status for China. Every new agreement makes it easier for jobs and money to leave the US -- makes it harder to effectively manage or control large corporations. Proponents will argue that the TPP merely expands opportunities for increasing trade and the markets for American goods. They claim it ensures that all partners abide by a fair and common set of rules and standards.

I think the TPP is ghastly. Maybe it'll fail in the senate, but I doubt it.