Jobs and Economic Growth

The U.S. Constitution requires that the president give a State of the Union address "from time to time," in order to inform the American people on national matters. This address has become an annual tradition, and it's always a big night on Capitol Hill as we hear directly from the president on the year behind us and what's to come.

Trade with international allies is the backbone of the American economy. Importing and exporting goods and services not only sustains millions of American jobs, but it also provides the food we eat, the clothes we wear, the cars we drive and much more. Two of our most important trading partners are our neighbors to the north and south, Canada and Mexico.

As the country with the second-largest GDP in the world, China continues its rise as a significant player on the global stage. Previous administrations have attempted to get China to come to the negotiating table and sign a deal, but only came to verbal agreements, which were quickly broken. Now, President Trump has put Phase 1 of a trade deal with China into place.

If you've lived in rural Arkansas for any length of time, you know that broadband connectivity is a huge issue. Something as simple as uploading a resume to a job posting or researching for a time-sensitive project can quickly be delayed by a spotty internet connection.

As the end of the year approaches, there's no shortage of news here on Capitol Hill. The House of Representatives is quickly trying to get impeachment articles, appropriations and military funding finalized before Christmas. But by far the most important news of the week was a deal on the United States, Mexico and Canada Agreement (USMCA).