U.S. Chamber Applauds Obama's Choice for USTR

Opening Foreign Markets Critical to U.S. Economic Recovery

WASHINGTON, DC—U.S. Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Thomas J. Donohue issued the following statement on President-elect Barack Obama's selection of former Dallas Mayor Ron Kirk to serve as U.S. Trade Representative:

"At a time when trade has been a rare bright spot for the U.S. economy, we welcome President-elect Obama's emphasis on the need to 'expand our efforts to promote American enterprise around the world.' The Chamber is eager to support him, Bill Richardson, and now Ron Kirk in this important work.

"During his time in Washington, Austin, and Dallas, Ron Kirk demonstrated a keen understanding of the benefits of trade as an engine for growth and jobs. Rebuilding the bipartisan consensus on trade will be job one as U.S. Trade Representative, but in the end, his mission will be to open overseas markets to American goods and services.

"Finding consensus at home is essential, but leveling the trade playing field for American workers, farmers and companies will be the true measure of success."

The U.S. Chamber is the world's largest business federation representing more than 3 million businesses and organizations of every size, sector, and region.

# # #