Bipartisan Senator Discuss Importance of Securing Tanker Contract for American Workers, Keeping Jobs at Home

Press Release

Today, a bipartisan group of U.S. Senators dedicated to supporting jobs for American workers sent a message to the Obama Administration about the importance of the tanker contract in creating jobs, supporting American companies, and ensuring a future for the aerospace industry in their states.

"A win for the Boeing tanker and America's aerospace workers would be a big step forward in our efforts to "win the future" said Senator Patty Murray (D-WA). "American jobs, our industrial base, and economic growth is on the line in all of our states with this critical contract. I know that the aerospace workers in my state are hungry for this contract, can start producing these tankers tomorrow, and will deliver for our men and women in uniform."

"Job creation in the United States should start with the procurement of a Boeing tanker," said Senator Pat Roberts (R-KS). "Awarding this contract to Boeing will create an estimated 7,500 jobs and represents an annual $388 million economic impact to Kansas. Boeing's proposal is based on a proven platform founded on the expertise of Kansas workers. It is time to award this contract and put folks to work."

"American tax dollars should support American products from American companies that create American jobs," said Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI). "This contract will be awarded to one of two companies, and if the American company is chosen it means 450 critically needed jobs in Michigan. I recently visited 350 workers at a Michigan plant whose jobs will be impacted by this decision. The Air Force's new tanker should be built here at home."

"On a fair and level playing field, American workers will win every time," said Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA). "But the tanker competition has been anything but fair and level. Airbus has attempted to underbid Boeing with the help of billions of dollars in illegal, market-distorting subsidies. During this final home stretch, I urge the Administration to give American workers a fair chance -- and to make sure the tanker contract is not awarded on terms that violate international trade laws."

"Our skilled Kansas work force is ready to support our men and women in uniform with the best tanker," said Senator Jerry Moran (R-KS). "The Pentagon should consider all the facts in this competition, including billions in illegal subsidies. With a national unemployment rate of 9%, the Pentagon should not be working against American manufacturing and its workers. Given a fair competition, I am confident the Air Force will ultimately make the right decision for America's warfighters, workers, and taxpayers."