As an expert in international trade and economic history, I can provide you with a detailed account of the presidency during the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) era.

NAFTA is a pivotal trade agreement that reshaped economic relations between the United States, Canada, and Mexico. It was signed by the leaders of the three countries on December 17, 1992, and was designed to eliminate trade barriers, promote economic growth, and enhance cooperation among the member countries. The agreement was a significant step towards economic integration in North America.

The president during the NAFTA negotiations and its eventual implementation was Bill Clinton. Clinton served as the 42nd President of the United States from January 20, 1993, to January 20, 2001. His tenure saw the NAFTA agreement pass through the U.S. Congress and become law.

The NAFTA bill was passed in the Senate on November 20, 1993, with a vote of 61-38. The support in the Senate was bipartisan, with 34 Republicans and 27 Democrats voting in favor of the bill. This demonstrated the widespread support for the agreement across party lines, reflecting its importance for the U.S. economy and its trading partners.

Clinton signed the NAFTA Implementation Act into law on December 8, 1993. His signing statement emphasized the belief that NAFTA would lead to job creation and economic prosperity. He stated, "NAFTA means jobs." This statement underscored the administration's view that the agreement would open up new markets for American businesses, leading to increased exports, job growth, and a boost to the U.S. economy.

The agreement officially went into effect on January 1, 1994, marking the beginning of a new era in North American economic cooperation. Over the years, NAFTA has been credited with increasing trade among the member countries, fostering economic growth, and creating jobs. However, it has also faced criticism for its impact on certain sectors and workers who were displaced due to increased competition.

It's important to note that while NAFTA brought about significant changes, it was not without its challenges. There were concerns about the agreement's impact on the environment, labor standards, and the displacement of workers in industries that faced new competition. These issues have been part of the ongoing debate about the benefits and drawbacks of free trade agreements.

In conclusion, the presidency during the NAFTA era was under Bill Clinton, who played a crucial role in the agreement's passage and implementation. His administration viewed NAFTA as a means to create jobs and stimulate economic growth, a sentiment that was reflected in the bipartisan support the agreement received in the Senate. The signing of NAFTA into law and its subsequent impact on North American trade and economic relations is a testament to the significant role that presidential leadership can play in shaping international economic policy.

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The bill passed the Senate on November 20, 1993, 61-C38. Senate supporters were 34 Republicans and 27 Democrats. Clinton signed it into law on December 8, 1993; the agreement went into effect on January 1, 1994. Clinton, while signing the NAFTA bill, stated that "NAFTA means jobs.read more >>