Central American Free Trade Agreement
The Challenge
Meridian Hill was called upon to build a national coalition to oppose the Central American Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA) and shape future U.S. trade policy based upon Fair Trade principles.
The Solution
Meridian Hill played a leading role creating and managing Americans for Fair Trade, a national grassroots coalition of commodities, farm, manufacturing, labor and faith-based groups. The coalition in just a few months became a significant player in Congress and the national media that:
- Worked directly with the Democratic Leadership and Members of Congress from both sides of the aisle to create and manage a highly accurate Whip Count throughout the year long campaign leading up to the night of the vote.
Ernest Baynard and Senator Sherrod Brown - Was featured frequently on nationally televised news programs with Meridian Hill’s Founder and President Ernest Baynard making numerous appearances on CNN, MSNBC and FOX News on behalf of the coalition.
- Became a leading source for information to the media and decision makers and was quoted in national news and wire stories featuring quotes from the White House and Congressional Leadership.
PittsburghLive.com - Central American trade agreement draws skepticism
Roll Call - CAFTA: A Hot Recess Topic
Roll Call - CAFTA Battle Expected to Shape Entire Trade Agenda
National Catholic Reporter - Guatemalan Bishop Joins Voices Opposing Trade Treaty
National Journal's CongressDailyAM - State Ag Directors Vote To Oppose CAFTA
LATimes.com - Small Firms Fight Back on Trade
Winston-Salem Journal - Trade Pact Getting the Cold Shoulder
- Created a well recognized brand and online platform for analysis, polls, and paid media that created buzz and drove blog coverage.
- Created a unified front for a wide array of voices and groups from across the political spectrum while driving messages tailored for both conservative and progressive audiences.
- Conceived and executed highly successful local, state level and regional press events which influenced undecided Members of Congress while crystallizing the positions of others.
