Tensions in the US over the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) continue running high as the presidential contest moves forward – posing renewed questions over when and whether Washington lawmakers will ratify the deal, even as the White House continues to make the case for its swift passage. Meanwhile, deliberations on the TPP are now underway in the legislature of another major member – Japan. As the weeks count down toward the Republican and Democratic National Conventions – both slated for July – trade has taken a particularly high-profile role in the debate, as candidates spar both within – and across – party lines over the merits of past deals such as the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and the potential benefits or costs of passing the TPP. The remaining candidates for both parties – with the exception of Ohio Governor John Kasich, who is running for the Republican nomination – have openly criticised the TPP and said they cannot support it in its current form. However, Obama Administration officials have countered that the political climate – though difficult – does not make TPP passage impossible in Washington. Rather, some argue, the issue is about better explaining the issues in order...