The Stand— the daily media blog of Washington State Labor Council (WSLC) — is once again up in arms concerning the lack of “transparency” in the Trans-Pacific Partnership, a proposed 12-nation trade agreement. What drew big labor’s ire – a Seattle visit from U.S. Trade Representative Michael Froman, who pointed out that Washington State stood to gain the most from the agreement.
But, the WSLC isn’t taking his word for it. An Editor’s Note from the Stand reads,
Dear Mr. Froman,
If the TPP is so great, why is it being kept secret from Americans and from our elected representatives in Congress? About 600 reps from America’s most powerful corporations are allowed to see it, but not us? From the bits and pieces that have leaked out and your track record of negotiating trade deals that have clearly failed to benefit the 99% and our communities, you’ll understand our skepticism.
Sincerely,
The Entire Staff of The Stand
Well, the Stand’s hypocrisy about “transparency” inspired us to substitute a few words in the Labor Council’s diatribe, and address it as an Editor’s Letter on this topic to the State Labor Council’s biggest cheerleader – Jay Inslee – to ask about his secret negotiations using taxpayer money with state employee unions.
Dear Mr. Inslee,
If your negotiation with state employee unions is going so great, why is it being kept a secret from Washingtonians and our elected representatives in the state Legislature? Top officials from some of Washington State’s most powerful unions are allowed to see it, but not us? From the bits and pieces that have leaked out and your track record of negotiating with unions at high cost to the taxpayers who pay the bills, you’ll understand our skepticism.
Sincerely,
The Entire SHIFT WA Team
PS – And Jay, since you claim to be a major supporter of international trade, how about publically rebuking the State Labor Council, and telling your labor friends they are wrong to oppose more trade with Pacific Rim nations?
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