(Washington, D.C.) – Teamsters General President James P. Hoffa today told members of Congress that the Teamsters Union is closely watching the upcoming votes on unfair trade agreements with Chile and Singapore. Hoffa made the remarks at a press conference in the Capitol with members of Congress who also oppose trade deals that harm American working families.

“The Chile and Singapore Trade Agreements represent another attack on America’s working families by the Bush Administration and congressional leaders on both sides of the aisle,” said Hoffa. “Elected officials—regardless of party affiliation—who describe themselves as labor’s friends must not take us for granted on this matter.  We will score this vote, and let our members know where each member of Congress stands regardless of party affiliation.”

The U.S.-Chile and U.S.-Singapore Free Trade Agreements (FTA) violate Congressional negotiating objectives and could set a precedent, for future trade deals, including the Central American FTA and the Free Trade Area of the Americas. This means that any vote in favor of the Chile and Singapore FTAs will likely be viewed by this Administration as a green light for including similar, if not identical, language in future trade agreements.

The Teamsters have praised the Jordan FTA because it followed every labor obligation, including commitments to meet the International Labor Organization’s core labor standards. In addition, under the Jordan FTA, the exact same dispute settlement rules and remedies were available for labor, environmental, and commercial disputes.

“These trade agreements raise the white flag of surrender over our national sovereignty by permitting foreign investors to challenge U.S. laws and regulations,” Hoffa added.  “This is a wake-up call for both Democrats and Republicans who say they are with labor. You are either with the American worker or against the American worker.”

Founded in August 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters is celebrating its 100-year anniversary as a representative and advocate for working families.