Manufacturing Policy Recommendations for President-Elect Trump

The 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act was rocket fuel for manufacturers. The legislation increased wages, helped us hire and make tremendous investments in our businesses and communities, giving us the certainty we needed to kickstart the manufacturing resurgence we have seen in recent years. Efforts to modernize permitting processes, unleash American energy and relieve backlogs of pipeline projects helped make us energy independent and provide needed resources for allies around the world.

But we are facing monumental headwinds today, and sector optimism is at its lowest levels in years. The cost of business continues to increase. From health care to looming tax hikes, and aggressive agency overreach, the policies of today are keeping shovels out of the ground. We believe that we can build on the successes of our previous work together to roll back burdensome regulations, unleash American energy security, power the economy of the future with an all-of-the-above energy strategy and restore the dignity of manufacturing work.

More than 600 business leaders joined the NAM in signing a letter, which was released publicly on Election Day, to the next president stating, “We believe in an exceptional America, and that our future is strongest when we are united … This moment is critical for the millions of workers and communities who rely on our success. A strong manufacturing economy is essential to our national security, economic resilience and continued prosperity. We must restore confidence in the future and in the economic systems that have long driven opportunity and innovation, so that American families and businesses can thrive in a united and forward-looking nation.”

With competitive taxes, sensible regulation and unleashed American energy, manufacturers are ready to win big. We are prepared to work closely with you and your new administration to build a future where our workers thrive and American leadership remains second to none.

Work Together

Associated Equipment Distributors (AED) President & CEO Brian P. McGuire

Our country stands at a crossroads where bipartisan cooperation is not just necessary—it is essential. We must rise above gridlock and inaction. Together, Republicans and Democrats have the responsibility to maintain a tax code that fosters growth, to invest in our infrastructure and rural communities and maintaining and nurturing the next generation of skilled workers who will shape our future.

The prosperity of the United States depends on these commitments, and AED members are ready to play a key role in building, feeding, and fueling the country. Now is the time for our elected leaders to set aside partisan divides, prioritize these critical issues, and work hand in hand for the success and future of our nation."

We’ve said all along that no matter who is in the White House, our fight remains the same. The fight to fix our broken trade laws like the USMCA continues. The fight for good union jobs and U.S. leadership in the emerging battery industry continues. The fight for a secure retirement for everyone in this country continues. The fight for a living wage, affordable health care, and time for our families continues. 

It's time for Washington, DC to put up or shut up, no matter the party, no matter the candidate. Will our government stand with the working class, or keep doing the bidding of the billionaires? That’s the question we face today. And that’s the question we’ll face tomorrow. The answer lies with us. No matter who’s in office.

If that’s the question you’re asking today, no matter who you voted for.

Be Mindful of the Supply Chain

Cold Chain Alliance President and CEO Sara Stickler

We look forward to working with the new administration and congressional leadership to promote the continued growth of a resilient, innovative and efficient cold supply chain for consumers and communities across the United States of America and globally.

We look forward to continuing our work across all branches of government to promote common sense, consistent and pro-enterprise policies that enable cold chain businesses to deliver for their customers.

We are also committed to promoting the growth of exports from U.S.-based food production and broader manufacturing sectors. We will engage constructively in the policy discussion about future trade policy and continue to make the case for the importance of maintaining balanced and resilient trade routes for food and other temperature-controlled products across the world.

“CPA will be working closely with President-Elect Trump’s team to craft policies that will make a lasting impact on U.S. trade and industrial policy,” said Zach Mottl, chairman of CPA.

During his first term, President-Elect Trump implemented landmark trade policies, such as Section 301 tariffs on China, that CPA strongly supported as key steps in addressing China’s predatory trade practices. We look forward to building on these policies in his second term and working with former U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and other key advisors to implement policies that will keep our economy strong, independent, and resilient.

The next four years offer a critical window for reinforcing America’s manufacturing base, securing supply chains, and reclaiming U.S. economic independence. CPA is committed to continuing its role as a trusted advisor and key partner to the incoming administration, advocating for policies that prioritize American workers, manufacturers, and communities.

“The globalist, free-trade era was a bipartisan mistake, costing American jobs and hollowing out U.S. industry—a reality now recognized across the political spectrum,” said Michael Stumo, CEO of CPA. “For years, many Democrats opposed those misguided trade policies, and the Biden administration recently acknowledged the end of the globalist era. While Democrats may be disappointed by this election outcome, we are eager to collaborate with leaders from both parties to build a new bipartisan consensus around American economic patriotism. Together, we can forge a future that prioritizes U.S. workers, strengthens our industries, and secures our nation’s prosperity and resilience.”