this just in

The free trade agreement between the U.S. and Central America (CAFTA) basically eliminates all taxes on U.S. manufactured goods. This referendum has been at the forefront of Costa Rican news for weeks, because although people in America have yet to hear about it, the decision effects every worker in the country, rich or poor. In general, the progress which CAFTA engenders for Costa Rica, is another step in its economic development. Along with the agreement will come an influx of big American companies that will compete with smaller local businesses. Since these large companies can afford to have lower prices than the local businesses, what starts as healthy competition will end in brisk elimination. Farmers, who represent 19% of Costa Rican workers and 10% GDP, are the ones whose livelyhoods are at stake. Unfortunately Costa Rica doesn't have the resources to cut themselves a better deal than CAFTA, which is an agreement that is more in America's favor.
The results of the vote are 51.5% to 48.5% in favor of the agreement. Last night as we sat in our living room, people were driving around, honking, playing music, and shouting in celebration. Being here during such an important part of Costa Rican history has been an interesting and eye-opening experience about global politics.