Comment: Trade Politics—A Debate

Authors

  • John T. Passé-Smith

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.15763/issn.2374-7781.1994.15.0.89-97

Abstract

The preceding study by Byron W. Daynes and Glen Sussman is valuable in that it points to the complexity of trade and of trade legislation, highlighting the role of presidential fast-track authority within that process. Unfortunately, the authors overstate the case for the waxing of presidential power, choosing to view the evolving relationship as a zero-sum game. The reality is that major trade deals such as those in which fast-track authority is utilized are so complex and politically sensitive that the White House and Congress must work together to achieve success. The evolving relationship is one of managed conflict, not open hostility. The fast-track mechanism does constitute a major change in the relationship between the legislative and executive branches, as the authors document, but change does not automatically mean that the executive is sacking the legislative.

References

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Published

1994-04-01

Issue

Vol. 15: Spring 1994

Section

Articles

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