President Obama is struggling to gain Democratic support for "fast-tracking" a controversial trade agreement with 11 Latin and Asian countries known as the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP). If the fast-track process is allowed, Obama would not need congressional approval.
On Wednesday, Obama met with Sens. Chris Coons (D-Del.), Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Patty Murray (D- Wash.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) at the White House, seeking more support for his proposed plan, according toThe Hill.
Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.), one of the most vocal opponents of the partnership, is threatening a filibuster, reported The Washington Post's editorial board.
Doctors Without Borders/Medecins San Frontiers is also highly critical of the agreement saying it will strengthen drug patents, weaken generic competitions, and drive up the cost of medicines. "We believe this presents a direct threat to the future availability of affordable medicines for MSF's patients and for millions of others around the Asia-Pacific region," wrote leaders of the agency in an open letter.
However, a representative from the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) argues that without strengthening patent life, innovation can't proceed and new drugs can't be developed.
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