Baldwin Responds to Trump’s Commitment to “Resurrect the American Shipbuilding Industry”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) released the following statement in response to President Trump’s commitment to “resurrect the American shipbuilding industry” during his joint address to Congress.

“I take great pride in representing Wisconsin’s shipbuilding industry, and in his speech last night, the President acknowledged something I’ve been long fighting for – the need to revitalize the American shipbuilding industry and support American workers and companies,” said Senator Baldwin. “America used to lead the world in shipbuilding, but for too long, China has cheated the rules, threatening our national security and jobs across the country. I’ve always said I’d work with anyone to deliver for Wisconsinites – so, Mr. President, let’s get to work. The first step is cracking down on China for cheating and holding them accountable – like I have long fought for – so we level the playing field for workers and support Made in America shipbuilding.”

Senator Baldwin has been leading the charge to level the playing field for Wisconsin workers. Last March, Senator Baldwin joined USW and other labor leaders in support of the American shipbuilding industry and to call on Trade Representative Tai to conduct a full investigation. In April, the USTR announced they were heeding that call and launching an investigation into China, resulting in a report that lays the groundwork for the Trump Administration to impose appropriate penalties on China to support American workers. In January, Senator Baldwin applauded the United States Trade Representative report outlining China’s unfair trade practices to undercut American shipbuilding and called on the President to act. In February, Baldwin led a group of her colleagues in calling on the Trump Administration to act on the results of the investigation and take immediate action to level the playing field for American workers, businesses, and national security.

Senator Baldwin has long championed Buy America policies to support American businesses and workers. She fought to advance her American Made Navy Act in last year’s annual defense legislation, which would ensure by 2033 any new Navy ship purchased uses 100% domestically produced materials, like propulsion systems, shipboard components, couplings, shafts, support bearings, and more. She also worked to include strong Buy America standards in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.