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Bipartisan panel examines the future of trade policy, affordability, and workforce development in an ever-changing global economy.

By Ellie Gustafson

Rep. Don Beyer (D-VA) and Rep. Kevin Kiley (I-CA) speak at Center Forward’s Trade Summit on Tuesday, June 9, 2026 in Washington, D.C.

Rep. Don Beyer (D-VA) and Rep. Kevin Kiley (I-CA) joined Center Forward’s American Economic Leadership and Trade Summit for a bipartisan discussion on trade, workforce development, and affordability.

A central theme throughout the conversation was the importance of stability and predictability in trade policy. Both lawmakers emphasized that businesses and workers alike benefit from clear and consistent trade rules that allow for long-term planning and investment.

Workforce challenges emerged as a key focus of the conversation. Trade-related shifts and advances in artificial intelligence are reshaping industries and creating new challenges for workers. Congressman Beyer noted that while programs such as Trade Adjustment Assistance have historically provided support for individuals affected by economic transitions, additional resources may be necessary to help workers successfully adapt to changing labor market conditions. Congressman Kiley also highlighted the growing need for policies that equip workers with the skills and resources necessary to succeed in an increasingly technology-driven economy.

The panel examined the relationship between trade policy and affordability. Both lawmakers acknowledged that trade decisions can have significant impacts on the prices that everyday Americans pay at the grocery store and gas pump. Maintaining access to competitive markets and reliable supply chains remains an important consideration as policymakers seek to address cost-of-living concerns facing American families.

Congress’s role in trade policy was another area of discussion. The Congressmen both emphasized the importance of bipartisan engagement on efforts to restore a stronger congressional role in decisions related to tariffs and trade policy. Both Rep. Kiley and Rep. Beyer described the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) as a strong foundation for North American economic cooperation and discussed opportunities to build upon its successes as policymakers prepare for future reviews of the agreement.

The bipartisan conversation underscored a recurring theme of the Summit: effective trade policy requires balancing economic opportunity, workforce needs, and long-term competitiveness. As Congress continues to debate the future of trade and economic policy, this discussion highlighted areas of common ground and the importance of growth in an increasingly interconnected global economy.