By Bill Zeeble, KERA News
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/kera/local-kera-824724.mp3
Dallas, TX – U.S Senators will question former Dallas Mayor Ron Kirk today at 4 o'clock, as they consider his confirmation to be U.S. Trade Representative. KERA's Bill Zeeble has more.
Ron Kirk helped coordinate Barak Obama's Presidential campaign in Texas. In December Obama picked Kirk to be his Trade Representative. Since then, the Senate Finance Committee found Kirk owed 10 thousand dollars in unpaid taxes. In some cases he directly donated thousands in speaking fees to his alma mater but should've declared it as income first, to pay taxes on it. Kirk is filing amended returns to pay what's owed, and many view the issue as minor.
Kirk's confirmation has been delayed because of other cabinet level confirmation hearings, and a pair of failed Commerce Secretary appointments.
Many business groups welcome Kirk's pro-trade stance. Some unions and critics question whether Kirk would protect worker's rights and the environment. If the committee approves of Kirk, his name will go to the entire Senate for a vote.