CRAPO: PORTMAN GOOD CHOICE FOR TRADE

Washington, DC â?? Idaho Senator Mike Crapo, Chairman of the Senate Banking Subcommittee on International Trade and Finance and member of the Senate Finance Committee, voiced his support today for Rob Portman, President Bushâ??s nominee to become U.S. Trade Representative. Portman presently represents Ohioâ??s Second District and served with Crapo during his tenure in the House. Crapo says Portmanâ??s specialized knowledge with international trade will be an asset in ensuring a robust foreign trade market. If confirmed, Portman would replace former Trade Representative Robert Zoellick. â??I welcome the Presidentâ??s nomination of Representative Portman to the post of U.S. Trade Representative. Having worked with Rob when we were members of the House leadership team and now as a Senator, he has the talents to be an effective and responsive leader promoting free and fair trade and a bridge to Members of Congress. We are at a critical juncture in U.S. efforts to ensure free and fair trade abroad, and I look forward to working with Rob as a partner in advocating for Idaho and U.S. businesses and reducing barriers to our exports.â?? Portman will now begin the confirmation process, which will run through the Senate Finance Committee. As a member of the Senate Finance Committee, Crapo will participate in that confirmation process. # # #