Obama, McConnell Praise Each Other (Indirectly) Over Trade Bill

In a rare political moment, Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky, and President Obama indirectly commended each other for legislation the president into law that will save jobs in Kentucky and other states.The trade bill was sponsored by McConnell and allows the Department of Commerce to continue to assess duties on imports from designated non-market economies. During a press conference held in the White House Rose Garden, Mr. Obama praised the proposal while discussing trade practices in China.From McConnell's office: "This is great news for Kentucky workers," McConnell said. "I heard from a number of Kentuckians who were worried about unfair foreign trade practices and the impact they would have on their jobs here at home. This measure levels the playing field for Kentucky workers and job creators and helps them compete fairly with countries like China." Cardinal Aluminum in Louisville, Kentucky, which employs 400 workers, is one of the local companies that contacted McConnell seeking assistance. "The future of our employees was at risk because of these unfair trading practices, and I appreciate Sen. McConnell for helping make this a top priority and championing this measure through Congress," said Chip Edwards, President and CEO of Cardinal Aluminum. McConnell also heard from NewPage, a paper mill located in Wickliffe, Kentucky, which employees approximately 450 workers.