On January 1, of 1994 a new approach to trade amongst North American countries took effect. With the aid of the United States Congress, President Bill Clinton was able to form a contract between the North American Countries of Canada, Mexico, and The United States of America. This contract, known as the North American Free Trade Agreement, or NAFTA for short, was designed with many economic results in mind. Hopes were that not only would trade be easier, cheaper, and more abundant for all countries involved, but also economic wealth and growth would follow. Support for NAFTA was split among most citizens of this country. One side seeing the proposal as having the potential for great economic success in each country involved. The other side proclaiming that this plan would be unfavorable to United States employment.
             Nearly six years after coming into effect the question still remains, "Is NAFTA in the best interest of the United States and what can we expect of it in the future?" Since the implication of free trade between the three countries of North America back in 1994 the effects of that agreement are just now becoming apparent, both short term and long term. There was little doubt that both Canada and Mexico would benefit from NAFTA. However, what was yet to be seen was the impact it had on previous concerns of the United States. Most economists and even ordinary citizens could understand Canada and Mexico's enthusiasm when free trade, destroying tariffs, was proposed. After all, the United States has long been the major consumer of exported goods in both countries. No longer having to pay taxes on goods imported into the United States meant larger sales and more profits for all Canadian and Mexican businesses. These profits were foreseen as long-lasting economic boosts in their respective country. These boosts created opportunities for more workers to be hired, lowered unemployment, and helped improv...