
The legislation is a divisive point among some Democrats, however. Sharp critics of the president have been reluctant to vote on the USMCA and give Trump a legislative victory, while some more moderate lawmakers have been wary of returning to their districts with impeachment dominating the conversation.
But Speaker Nancy PelosiNancy PelosiOn The Money: Reddit traders cause Wall Street havoc | Powell: Inflation fears should not impede more coronavirus aid | NJ lawmakers press for SALT cap repeal in next relief package Pelosi asks Democrats to 'write their stories' of Capitol riot Bringing America back from the brink MORE (D-Calif.) has been adamant that the caucus can keep impeachment separate from legislation, and she has met in recent weeks with U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer
Bob LighthizerWhiskey, workers and friends caught in the trade dispute crossfire GOP senator warns quick vote on new NAFTA would be 'huge mistake' Pelosi casts doubt on USMCA deal in 2019 MORE and other administration officials.
Trump has repeatedly hammered Pelosi for her decision not to bring the USMCA up for a vote to date, accusing her of delaying it to shepherd votes on impeachment.
"I'll see if I can be switched from 'no' to 'yes,'" Rep. Bill PascrellWilliam (Bill) James PascrellMarjorie Taylor Greene expressed support on Facebook for violence against Democrats Democrat calls on Biden to fire postal board for 'complicity' in attempts to overturn election Capitol Police officer hailed as hero for drawing rioters away from Senate chamber MORE (D-N.J.), a member of the House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Trade and close union ally, said late last week when asked about the USMCA.
One of the major questions hanging over the talks in recent weeks was whether Mexico would agree to invasive oversight and enforcement of the deal.
"We don't have very much confidence in that the government of Mexico can fulfill what we're going to be putting in these trade bill," Pascrell said.
"If they can't get [El] Chapo's son from killing people and his cohorts, how are they going to follow through and administer the legislation we're talking about?" he added, referring to the drug cartel leader.
But even without union support, Pascrell said some members of Democratic leadership would be eager to push ahead.
Niv Elis contributed to this report, which was updated at 10:45 a.m.