Peoria Standard

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16), a member of the House Ways and Means Committee and Co-Chair of the Digital Trade Caucus, recently appeared on the POLITICO Tech podcast to shed light on important issues surrounding digital trade policy. LaHood, alongside Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (D-WA), engaged in a bipartisan interview to discuss the Biden Administration's abandonment of key bipartisan digital trade proposals at the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the risks posed by China.

During the podcast interview, LaHood expressed his concerns about China's influence in shaping the digital economy, stating, "I share the concerns of many of my colleagues as it pertains to China and that we not allow China to write the rules of the road for the digital economy." He highlighted the Chinese government's restrictive model of digital governance, which includes censorship, surveillance, human rights abuses, forced technology transfers, and severe restrictions on the free flow of data. LaHood emphasized the importance of the United States taking the lead in setting the rules for the future.

Drawing attention to the successful bipartisan passage of the digital chapters in the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), LaHood argued that these chapters should serve as a template for future digital trade policies. He highlighted the provisions in the USMCA that address competition, protectionist data flows, localization restrictions, and web blocking, stating that they should be embraced by the Biden Administration.

LaHood also expressed his disappointment in the Biden Administration's lack of enthusiasm and engagement on digital trade issues. He stated, "Our allies around the globe, particularly in the Indo-Pacific, are craving U.S. leadership. It's really important that we step up to the plate. We've had a number of bipartisan letters pressing upon the Administration to be engaged on digital trade. I wish I could tell you that we were at a point where I thought I had confidence that they (the Biden Administration) have the kind of the same level of enthusiasm that we have. But I don't have that confidence at this point."

The interview with Congressman LaHood provides valuable insights into the ongoing discussions and concerns surrounding digital trade policy. As the Co-Chair of the Digital Trade Caucus, LaHood's perspective on the need for the United States to take a proactive role in shaping the future of the digital economy is crucial. With bipartisan support and a growing recognition of the risks posed by China's digital governance model, it is evident that there is a pressing need for the Biden Administration to prioritize digital trade and engage more actively in international discussions.

In conclusion, Congressman Darin LaHood's interview on the POLITICO Tech podcast sheds light on the challenges and opportunities in digital trade policy. Through his remarks, he emphasizes the importance of the United States leading the way in setting the rules for the digital economy, while expressing concern about China's influence. Additionally, LaHood calls for the Biden Administration to embrace the successful digital chapters of the USMCA and increase their engagement in digital trade discussions. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, it is imperative that policymakers address these issues to ensure a fair and secure digital trading environment.

Click this link to access more information: https://lahood.house.gov/2023/12/lahood-joins-the-politico-tech-podcast-to-discuss-digital-trade-policy