Short Answer 
President Bill Clinton advocates for fair trade practices that promote economic growth while protecting workers and the environment. He supports additional agreements to ensure that the benefits of free trade are equitably shared, acknowledging that both gains and losses arise from such policies.
Step 1: Understanding Free Trade
Free trade involves the elimination of tariffs and trade restrictions between countries, promoting increased consumption and economic growth. It creates a system where goods can flow freely across borders, allowing countries to specialize in their comparative advantages. However, while it boosts the global economy, it can also lead to disparities where some sectors or workers may lose out.
Step 2: Importance of Fair Rules
For free trade to be truly beneficial, it must be accompanied by fair rules that protect workers’ rights and the environment. These safeguards ensure that the benefits of trade are shared equitably and do not come at the expense of vulnerable populations. Clinton supported the idea of incorporating additional agreements that enhance protections amid trade agreements like NAFTA.
Step 3: Balancing Benefits and Risks
Economic analyses indicate that free trade creates both winners and losers. To maximize benefits while mitigating negative impacts, it is crucial to adopt a balanced approach. Policies must focus on establishing safeguards that prevent a “race to the bottom” in production standards and ensure that economic prosperity is equitably distributed across all sectors of society.