By Bill Zeeble, KERA News
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/kera/local-kera-808682.mp3
Dallas, TX – Former Dallas Mayor Ron Kirk is getting mixed reviews in response to his appointment today as the next U.S. Trade Representative. President-elect Barack Obama made the announcement this afternoon. KERA's Bill Zeeble watched the live press conference with some of Kirk's co-workers.
Fifty or more Kirk colleagues crowded a TV room on the 38th floor of Dallas' downtown Vinson and Elkins law firm. They were proud to applaud Ron Kirk as they watched his appointment.
Kirk: I'm humbled to accept the post of USTR in this administration. I believe a values driven trade agenda that stays true to our commitment to American workers and environment sustainability is not only consistent with a pro trade agenda but also necessary for success.
Long time friend and law firm colleague Veronica Lewis was there with her children and some of their small friends.
V.Lewis: He'll be able to find middle ground where all can find some of what they want and make everyone at least little bit happy.
Local and national business leaders, including past trade representatives, echoed Lewis's comments. Kirk's been praised for his foreign trade efforts when he was Dallas Mayor. In order to attain the cabinet level post, he must first be confirmed by the Senate. Republican Charles Grasseley, who heads the Senate Confirmation Committee, is unsure about Kirk's qualifications. So is Becky Moeller, President of the Texas AFL-CIO. She has concerns about NAFTA, the North American Free Trade Agreement, that Kirk backed.
Becky Moeller, president Texas AFL CIO: I don't think we're going to agree 100% with Ron Kirk.
While Moeller says the jury's still out on the appointee, Kirk has promised her an in depth conversation next month to share her concerns.
Moeller: We know that something has to be done with trade the way it is now so many jobs have left this country, and we look forward to meaningful dialogue with Ron Kirk.
But she's hopeful. Unions strongly backed the Obama/Biden ticket. Senior Vice President with Texas Instruments, Phil Ritter, has only optimism and support for Kirk, whom he says is able to fairly balance competing interests.
Phil Ritter: You look for someone who can listen to both sides and craft creative solutions that can move through the Congress. That skill set, political creativity and jdugement is something Ron Kirk has exhibited through out his career.
President-elect Obama has urged changes to some trade agreements like NAFTA, to ensure stronger environmental standards and worker rights. Kirk says he supports Obama's goals.