Today, Chairman of the Subcommittee on Economic Growth, Energy Policy, and Regulatory Affairs, Eric Burlison (R-Mo.), addressed the hearing titled “Made in the USA: Igniting the Industrial Renaissance of the United States.” In his statements, Burlison emphasized that under President Donald Trump, there is a renewed effort to bring manufacturing back to the United States. He highlighted the federal government’s past inaction on issues like cheap foreign labor, regulatory burdens, and a dysfunctional permitting system, which he claims have led to the loss of key supply chains to China.
Burlison cited historical instances of American manufacturing strength, stressing the urgent need to revitalize the sector. “We are here today to discuss an issue that is becoming increasingly urgent: the future of U.S. manufacturing,” Burlison remarked. He pointed out that during World War II, the U.S. manufacturing output played a crucial role, but noted a decline post-war with increased globalization.
The United States’ share of global manufacturing dropped from 40 percent in the 1950s to 16 percent today, a shift Burlison attributes to overregulation and globalization. “A vast amount of what once was American manufacturing was shipped off to become foreign manufacturing,” he stated, noting the rise of China’s manufacturing power.
Burlison expressed optimism about the potential for an American industrial revival. “There is hope we are approaching an American industrial renaissance,” he said. He attributed this hope to the Trump Administration’s efforts in reducing regulatory barriers and enhancing reshoring initiatives, leveraging advanced technologies to boost productivity and expand the middle class.
In conclusion, he emphasized the possibility of revitalizing manufacturing in the U.S. with the help of technological advancements and conducive policies, before passing the floor to Ranking Member Frost for his opening statement.
