And while I don't take all of the claims at face value, I do wonder why Google supports the TPP.

Why wouldn't they? Among other things it bans data localization which is important for a cloud operator. There are no downsides from Google's point of view.

It requires explanation that a multinational company would support a trade deal?

Good question. Do they support every single trade deal? Do they lobby equitably between them? If not, then why this one?

Since you're the one making the insinuations/argument, you should be answering those questions for us.

No problem! 1) No. 2) No. 3) Because they like what they think it will do.

Doesn't TPP extend legal protection for intellectual property? Much of Googles value stems from its IP. It makes sense they want to protect one of their most valuable assets.

Even there, there is plenty of stuff that is not in Google's business interests.

What specifically?

Copyright term extensions for one.

How does that harm Google? It brings the other countries in line with what the US already has (at least for works created after Jan 1, 1978). But, I really don't see how having copyrights extended 20 years in a handful of countries harms Google.

It puts the longer terms in a treaty, which is more difficult to modify.