http://www.commondreams.org/news2005/0610-21.htm


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
JUNE 10, 2005
11:26 AM
CONTACT: Progressive Patriots Fund
George Aldrich (60 831-1308

Feingold Rallies Democratic Convention to Stop CAFTA Now

OSHKOSH, WI - June 10 - As the Democratic Party of Wisconsin opened its annual State convention in Oshkosh today, U.S. Senator Russ Feingold’s Progressive Patriots Fund launched a national effort on its new website, www.progressivepatriotsfund.com, to rally opposition to the Central American Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA).

The Bush Administration and opponents of fair trade are pushing Congress for summer passage of CAFTA, patterned after the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), which has contributed to U.S. job losses and record trade deficits.

“This administration is out of touch with the honor and dignity of the American workers who continue to lose their jobs to unfair trade deals,� Feingold said to the convention. “We need to export American products, not American jobs. CAFTA is another unfair trade deal that will outsource more American jobs overseas.�

Feingold has fought to keep jobs in Wisconsin by voting against NAFTA, GATT, Fast Track, and Most Favored Nation status for China . Last year he voted against the U.S.-Australia Free Trade Agreement because it will hurt Wisconsin ’s dairy industry and effectively ban reimportation of prescription drugs from Australia . In addition, Feingold supports leveling the playing field by eliminating tax cuts for corporations that outsource jobs overseas and instead provide tax incentives for companies that invest in job creation in America .

Feingold’s Progressive Patriots Fund launched a new website last week and will feature a STOP CAFTA NOW online petition starting today with attendees signing up at the convention.

The Progressive Patriots Fund is dedicated to promoting a progressive reform agenda and supporting candidates across the country. The organization will enable Feingold to be a part of a larger national effort to build the Democratic Party throughout America as he travels across the country, listens to others, and speaks out on important issues.

Last November, Feingold won re-election to his third term, representing the Midwestern battleground state of Wisconsin , with an 11 percent victory and the most votes for any candidate, for any office, in the state's history.

For further information, contact: George Aldrich (60 831-1308