The issue of international trade may be the most important in this election,
where, sir, do you stand?
>> I am all for free trade, when all nations trade freely,
all nations gain and the world will prosper.
>> I am for free trade too, but only if it is fair trade.
If our trading partners use illegal exports, subsidies, or
manipulate their currency, our workers and economy will suffer.
>> You, madame, are not a free trader,
you are simply a protectionist who wants to impose punitive tariffs.
>> Let me remind you, sir, a tariff is not protectionist
if it is used simply to defend our country against unfair trade practices.
>> Well, at least voters will have a clear choice in this election.
>> Many businesses rely on the import of everything from energy and natural
resources to sophisticated assemblies for the manufacturing of their products.
Many more businesses are involved in exporting their products to the world.
And in this modern age, as ships and planes and trains and
trucks move cargo around the world,
trade has become essential to the health and vibrance of the global economy.