Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: TUESDAY, September 21, 1993 TAG: 9309210213
SECTION: VIRGINIA PAGE: C-5 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: Associated Press
DATELINE: RICHMOND LENGTH: Medium
As are several other Virginia congressmen, the Nelson County Democrat is still undecided on the controversial trade pact with Canada and Mexico because he is unsure what effect the agreement will have on jobs at home.
Payne holds a seat on a key House of Representatives panel reviewing NAFTA. His 5th District is home to textile manufacturers and other businesses that may be affected by the agreement.
"You hear 180-degree different opinions, based on very capable people looking at the same information," he said.
Rep. Herbert Bateman, R-Newport News, said he's leaning toward approving NAFTA, but added that Clinton needs to shore up declining support of the plan. The issue is before Congress this fall.
Bateman said he wondered earlier whether Clinton and his aides "were succumbing to the pressures of the labor movement and others opposed to NAFTA."
Labor unions have seized the NAFTA issue aggressively. They fear American jobs would move to low-wage Mexico. Supporters of the pact say it will strengthen the entire region and increase the market for U.S. goods, which would stimulate jobs.
The battle will focus on the House. It is expected to act first on the trade agreement, and majority support for Clinton seems most elusive there.
Rep. Robert Goodlatte, R-Roanoke, is undecided but leaning in favor of the treaty. Rep. Rick Boucher, D-Abingdon, has declared himself totally undecided.
Rep. Thomas J. Bliley, R-Richmond, wants to see NAFTA approved.
"I support it because it will create jobs in the United States. It will be helpful to my district," Bliley said.
by CNB