President Barack Obama is poised to win the powers he needs to close the biggest trade deal in a generation, after a bill granting him fast-track authority passed its last major legislative hurdle.
The Senate voted 60-37 to close debate on legislation giving Mr Obama so-called Trade Promotion Authority, overcoming the 60-vote threshold needed to prevent any procedural moves to block it by opponents. The White House commended Democrats and Republicans for the move.
“Today’s vote and further action on trade in Congress this week will send an important message to the world about America’s engagement and continued global leadership,” said Josh Earnest, White House press secretary.