Challengers press Boswell to vote for "Trade Promotion Authority"

The two republicans who hope to face democrat Congressman Leonard Boswell in next fall’s election are pressing Boswell to vote in favor of “Trade Promotion Authority.” Congress is scheduled to vote today on the issue, which used to be called “Fast Track” — giving the President greater authority to negotiate international trade deals. Stan Thompson of Des Moines, a G-O-P candidate for Iowa’s new third district congressional seat, says Boswell would be abandoning his farm constituents if he votes no.Richard Johnson of Sheldahl, the other G-O-P candidate in the district, says Boswell should vote “yes” because Trade Promotion Authority is important for Iowa farmers. He says economic development is tied to agriculture and the trade promotion programs are critical.Johnson, who is currently State Auditor, says trade’s important for Iowa manufacturers like Maytag, too. Johnson and Thompson will face one another in the June republican primary. Boswell has been listed as an “undecided” vote on the Trade Promotion Authority bill and will announce his decision on the issue later this morning.