Europe exempts most of their exports from value added taxes.  A huge export subsidy.  But they are complaining about tax credits for U.S. biodiesel industry.  The pot is calling the kettle black.   

Arcane tax stuff.  I know.  But a big piece of the "wacko" part of the "wacko free trade" deals.  If you can stand it, read on about this tax issue. 

Federal governments in many countries are keen to negotiate these free trade deals based on the old model, even as their citizens protest.  It's a strange dichotomy - the government vs. the citizens.  Replayed across the world.  Like South Korea this month.  Protests every day.

Where does the impetus for these bad deals come from?  Elected official altruism?

Even if Washington accepts the compromise suggested by Korean officials, it remained unclear whether that would placate the public. Civic groups have demanded a complete renegotiation of the deal, which they fear does not adequately protect Korean consumers. 

Rasmussen:  McCain over Obama 45-43% (within the 4% margin of error) 

Rasmussen:  Obama over McCain 45-38% (6/12)