Issue Position: Manufacturing

Issue Position

Issue Position: Manufacturing

Indiana's Third Congressional District is the highest percentage manufacturing district in the United States. Our manufacturers cover a broad range of products from auto parts to plastics to medical devices to steel. We are among the highest producers of steel, medical devices, RVs, boats, plastics, defense electronics, and auto parts.

I believe that our manufacturers are the best in the world. Their quality is superior and their workers are among the most productive on Earth. I believe in free trade, and the ability of our manufacturers to compete on a global level with anyone. Unfortunately, when other countries cheat, quality and productivity are not enough. Free trade cannot work without fair trade. When communist China manipulates its currency to provide economic advantage for its exports, it is hard for American companies to compete. When countries like Russia dump government-subsidized steel on the American market, it is hard for American companies to compete. When China openly pirates and counterfeits American goods, it is hard for American companies to compete.

During my time in Congress, I have worked to make sure that American companies are not disadvantaged in the world's markets. I have worked with other Members of Congress to push for better trade laws, sanctions on companies that dump their goods on the American market, and punishment for pirates and counterfeiters of American goods.

Manufactured Housing

The Third District produces the most manufactured homes in the world, with many companies based in Elkhart and the surrounding area. As the Member of Congress representing this district, I make the interests of the manufactured housing industry a top priority, including such legislation as H.R. 4804. Manufactured housing has a vital, if often overlooked, role to play in expanding homeownership among Americans. We must push to make sure more Americans have the option of such quality and affordable housing.

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