Kantor played a relatively small role in formulating the administration’s policy linking trade with human rights, from which Clinton is retreating. He did reach a deal to curb illegal shipments of clothing from China but has struck out trying to protect drugs and CDs from illegal copying. _B_Grade: C.b
Kantor’s harsh public criticism and his demand for ““quantitative measures’’ of trade liberalization appall Japanese who want more imports and let Tokyo portray itself as a victim of Washington’s quest for managed trade. By focusing on a few industries, Kantor neglected the matter that could have done the most for U.S. exports: revving up Japan’s economy. His hard line hasn’t paid off in lower trade barriers but it has soured U.S.-Japanese relations. _B_Grade: D.
Finishing up the seemingly endless global trade talks in December was a major achievement. This task played to Kantor’s greatest skill, haggling. Despite French foot-dragging over farm subsidies and sniping from U.S. companies unhappy with particular provisions, Kantor managed to cut a deal. ““They got something that no one of any prominence has declared himself absolutely against. That’s no easy feat,’’ says trade lawyer Alan Wolff. _B_Grade: A.
Kantor’s political instincts left him lukewarm about the free-trade agreement George Bush struck with Mexico and Canada. With little forethought, he led the administration to reopen the pact to address environment and labor issues. That needlessly turned ratification from a minor spat into a major fight. But once Clinton finally decided to go all out for NAFTA, Kantor proved an astute lobbyist. _B_Grade: B.b
Traditionally, trade representatives play good cop, leaving the bad-cop, protectionist role to Congress. Kantor hasn’t followed that tactic, sowing confusion on Capitol Hill. He is well liked – ““I have nothing but good things to say about him,’’ says Sen. John Danforth – but many in Congress take their concerns to Treasury Secretary Lloyd Bentsen, who once ran the Senate committee overseeing trade. Grade: B.
Kantor’s fondness for blunt public confrontation has left bruised feelings around the globe. How are relations with Canadian Trade Minister Roy MacLaren? ““What’s your next question?’’ responds MacLaren. Last week Kantor angered Indian officials visiting Washington by demanding they immediately pass new patent and copyright laws, although the recent GATT pact gives them 10 years to do so. Grade: D.
And how does Kantor rate himself? Like any good soldier, by praising his chief. Says he of Clinton: ““He’s had the most trade success of any president in this century.''
