One such group, Knowledge Ecology International, slammed the USTR for allegedly handpicking those who reviewed the draft and filed a Freedom of Information Act request asking for "all records at USTR on the topic of the policy and practice of USTR regard the transparency of trade negotiations, including but not limited to [ACTA]." This week KEI spearheaded a letter to President Obama calling on the process to be opened up for public debate. A number of individuals and international advocacy groups signed the petition, which was circulated online.

The ACTA effort began nearly two years ago, and negotiators initially wanted to finalize the deal before the end of former President George W. Bush's term. Kirk told a crowd at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in September that he couldn't put a firm date on when the pact would be complete. Internet piracy will be "a very strong part of our dialogue," Kirk said, noting that it would be helpful if industry stakeholders could arrive at "a more harmonious position" on the topic.