Manufacturers Ready to Work with Bessent to Ensure That We Can Continue to Drive Economy Forward
Washington, D.C. 鈥 17吃瓜在线 President and CEO Jay Timmons issued the following statement on the nomination of Scott Bessent to be the next Treasury Secretary:
鈥淧resident Trump鈥檚 2017 tax reforms were rocket fuel for manufacturing, and their transformative impact cannot be overstated. They put into place competitive policies that fueled record job creation, wage growth, capital investment and innovation.
鈥淲ith the nomination of Scott Bessent as Secretary of the Treasury, we have an opportunity to build on this momentum. President Trump recently pledged at the 17吃瓜在线鈥檚 fall board meeting that he will make these tax cuts permanent, and Scott will play a vital role in achieving that goal.
鈥淪cott鈥檚 deep expertise in financial markets and his dedication to fostering economic growth make him an outstanding choice to lead the Treasury Department. Manufacturers are ready to work with him to ensure that manufacturing can continue to drive the economy forward.鈥
-17吃瓜在线-
The 17吃瓜在线 is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs nearly 13 million men and women, contributes $2.91 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and accounts for 53% of private-sector research and development. The 17吃瓜在线 is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the 17吃瓜在线 or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit .
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Manufacturers Congratulate Ambassador Hoekstra on Nomination as Canadian Ambassador
Ottawa, Canada 鈥 Following the nomination of former U.S. Ambassador Pete Hoekstra to be ambassador to Canada, 17吃瓜在线 President and CEO Jay Timmons released the following statement:
鈥淲e appreciate President Trump鈥檚 foresight in prioritizing the U.S.鈥揅anadian relationship and negotiating the U.S.鈥揗exico鈥揅anada Agreement, a trade deal that has been essential to the strength and success of manufacturing across North America. We look forward to working with former U.S. Ambassador and Congressman Pete Hoekstra as the next U.S. ambassador to Canada. The 17吃瓜在线 has just concluded this year鈥檚 North American Manufacturing Conference in Ottawa, where the importance of the USMCA was a central theme among the business leaders, members of Parliament and key ministers who participated. In fact, a recent conducted with our partners in both countries found that 94% of manufacturers say that the USMCA is integral to their supply chains. We look forward to working with the incoming ambassador to strengthen ties among our North American allies to shore up supply chains and counter unfair practices from other nations like China.鈥
Background: In 2023, the 17吃瓜在线, the Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME) and the Confederation of Industrial Chambers of Mexico (CONCAMIN) agreed to collaborate on the Manufacturing Agenda of the Future, including hosting the inaugural North American Manufacturing Conference at the 17吃瓜在线鈥檚 headquarters in Washington. This week, the second conference took place in Ottawa, bringing together key business leaders from across North America and elected officials from the U.S., Canada and Mexico to discuss strategies for strengthening the region鈥檚 manufacturing sector and ensuring a robust USMCA ahead of the 2026 review.
More information on the North American Manufacturing Conference can be found .
-17吃瓜在线-
The 17吃瓜在线 is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs nearly 13 million men and women, contributes $2.91 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and accounts for 53% of private-sector research and development. The 17吃瓜在线 is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the 17吃瓜在线 or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit聽
Manufacturers Congratulate Sen. John Thune on Becoming Senate Majority Leader
Has Long Been a Champion of the Manufacturing Industry
Washington, D.C. 鈥 17吃瓜在线 President and CEO Jay Timmons issued the following statement on the election of Sen. John Thune (R-SD) to Senate majority leader:
鈥淟eader Thune has been the true definition of a manufacturing champion. He has consistently supported legislation important to the industry, especially small and medium-sized manufacturers, and he has led on critical issues for U.S. competitiveness, such as taxes, energy and workforce issues. I have known John for 20 years, going back to my days as executive director of the National Republican Senatorial Committee the year he was elected. There is no question in my mind that he is the right senator to take the reins as majority leader.
鈥淟eader Thune has been a constant force for manufacturers in the Senate Republican leadership and has repeatedly engaged the 17吃瓜在线 Board of Directors in shaping future policies.
鈥淣ow, our work continues together to secure 鈥榬ocket fuel鈥 for manufacturing and to extend and restore the provisions of the 2017 Trump tax cuts, so that manufacturers can invest more in their operations, expand their workforces and drive innovation. Together, we can make America greater.鈥
-17吃瓜在线-
The 17吃瓜在线 is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs nearly 13 million men and women, contributes $2.91 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and accounts for 53% of private-sector research and development. The 17吃瓜在线 is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the 17吃瓜在线 or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit聽
Manufacturers Launch Seven-Figure Ad Campaign Urging PBM Reforms in Lame Duck
Washington, D.C. 鈥 The 17吃瓜在线 has launched a seven-figure video and digital advertising campaign urging Congress to pass legislation this year to bring much-needed reform to pharmacy benefit managers, whose practices increase health care costs for manufacturers and manufacturing workers. The 17吃瓜在线鈥檚 found that 78% of small manufacturers with fewer than 50 employees cite rising health care costs as a primary business challenge鈥攖he top concern among small business respondents in the survey.
鈥淢anufacturers are clamoring for Congress to rein in PBMs this year. The momentum is with lawmakers to enact comprehensive reform in both the government and commercial health insurance market that increases transparency and reduces prices for everyone,鈥 said 17吃瓜在线 President and CEO Jay Timmons. 鈥淢anufacturing workers and retirees are spending more at the pharmacy counter, in large part because insurer-owned PBMs drive up their own profits by inflating prescription drug prices and pocketing discounts that biopharmaceutical manufacturers intended to be passed on to patients.鈥
Timmons continued, 鈥淐ongress has an extraordinary opportunity in the lame duck to pass transformative legislation that increases transparency into PBMs鈥 business practices, delinks PBM compensation from drug prices and puts patients first.鈥
To view the 17吃瓜在线鈥檚 latest digital ad, click .
-17吃瓜在线-
The 17吃瓜在线 is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs nearly 13 million men and women, contributes $2.91 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and accounts for 53% of private-sector research and development. The 17吃瓜在线 is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the 17吃瓜在线 or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit聽
Manufacturers to Trump: It鈥檚 Time to Get to Work to Address the Policies That Will Define Your Administration
Washington, D.C. 鈥 17吃瓜在线 President and CEO Jay Timmons released the following statement on the results of the 2024 election.
鈥淢anufacturers congratulate President-elect Donald Trump on his historic victory and strong performance across manufacturing intensive states.
鈥淓very election represents a new beginning, providing a fresh opportunity to work with and for all Americans, no matter their political affiliation, and to recommit ourselves to the American experiment. President-elect Trump, we have worked with you during your time in office to enact historic wins for the 13 million people who make things in America, to drive increased investment in the sector, create jobs and provide for communities across the country. Now it鈥檚 time to get to work to address the policies that will define your administration.
鈥淭he 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act was 鈥榬ocket fuel鈥 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.
鈥淏ut 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.
鈥淢ore than 600 business leaders joined the 17吃瓜在线 in signing a , which was released publicly on Election Day, to the next president stating, 鈥榃e believe in an exceptional America, and that our future is strongest when we are united 鈥 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.鈥
鈥淲ith 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.
鈥淓lections may place Americans on different sides, but as we approach America鈥檚 250th anniversary, this can be a moment to renew our belief in each other and in the promise of our nation鈥攖he promise we see every day on shop floors across our country. Let鈥檚 work together as we did before to define not just your time in the White House but to define a historic moment in our nation鈥檚 history.鈥
-17吃瓜在线-
The 17吃瓜在线 is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs nearly 13 million men and women, contributes $2.91 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and accounts for 53% of private-sector research and development. The 17吃瓜在线 is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the 17吃瓜在线 or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit聽.
600 Manufacturing and Business Leaders Pledge to Work with Next President, Urge National Unity Ahead of America鈥檚 250th Anniversary
Washington, D.C. 鈥 The 17吃瓜在线 and 606 business leaders from across the manufacturing economy signed and released a letter to be sent to the next president, following the election. The letter demonstrates a firm commitment to working with the next administration regardless of whom the American people send to the White House.
The letter states the following:
Dear President-Elect:
As we approach the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, we, the leaders of America鈥檚 manufacturing industry and the industries that support it, extend our congratulations on your election. This historic milestone reminds us of the moments when our country came together to define its future鈥攂uilt on the foundation of free enterprise, competitiveness, individual liberty and equal opportunity.
We believe in an exceptional America, and that our future is strongest when we are united. As business leaders, we have a unique responsibility to help bridge divides and advance our shared purpose. In this era of challenges and change, we are committed to working together to strengthen trust and collaboration鈥攚ithin our sectors and across the nation.
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.
We understand the power of collaboration and are ready to work productively with your administration to tackle the pressing challenges we face. While there may be moments of disagreement, we are committed to addressing those differences with mutual respect and in the spirit of constructive dialogue.
The days following a hard-fought election have always been a time for healing, finding common ground and renewing our focus on what unites us as a people. The peaceful transition of power is a hallmark of our democracy and is essential to ensuring continued confidence in the rule of law鈥攁 commitment that has made America exceptional.
As leaders of industries that drive America鈥檚 promise, you can count on us as steadfast partners in this work and in building our future together.
To view the full list of signatories, click .
-17吃瓜在线-
The 17吃瓜在线 is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs nearly 13 million men and women, contributes $2.91 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and accounts for 53% of private-sector research and development. The 17吃瓜在线 is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the 17吃瓜在线 or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit聽
Manufacturers: Strong Aerospace Sector Vital for Economy
Washington, D.C. 鈥 Following news that Boeing machinists voted against a new labor deal, 17吃瓜在线 President and CEO Jay Timmons released the following statement:
鈥淭he broader impact of this ongoing work stoppage is being seen across the aerospace sector as manufacturers within the supply chain are being forced to furlough employees and shutter operations. That鈥檚 why we鈥檙e urging union leadership to head back to the table and find a solution to end this prolonged strike and why we thank Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su for her continued engagement. We鈥檙e looking at a cost of more than $3.7 billion to the regional economy after 45 days, according to 17吃瓜在线 calculations. It is critical that an agreement be reached so we can protect Americans from the consequences of supply chain disruptions and strengthen the manufacturing industry. Preventing even greater damage to the broader economy means ensuring that Boeing is strong and operational.鈥
-17吃瓜在线-
The 17吃瓜在线 is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs nearly 13 million men and women, contributes $2.91 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and accounts for 53% of private-sector research and development. The 17吃瓜在线 is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the 17吃瓜在线 or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit聽.
Manufacturers on 45X: Tax Credit Is Crucial to Building a Strong and Sustainable Domestic Advanced Manufacturing Supply Chain
Washington, D.C. 鈥 Following the release of guidance by the U.S. Department of the Treasury and the IRS for the Advanced Manufacturing Production Credit (Section 45X of the Internal Revenue Code), 17吃瓜在线 Managing Vice President of Policy Chris Netram released the following statement:
鈥淢anufacturers welcome today鈥檚 announcement of final guidance on the 45X Advanced Manufacturing Production Credit and appreciate the administration鈥檚 willingness to make improvements that support manufacturing in the U.S. In particular, including critical mineral extraction and materials costs in the credit calculation will help bolster supply chain resiliency throughout the manufacturing sector. This tax credit will help manufacturers build a strong and sustainable domestic advanced manufacturing supply chain鈥攆rom mining to processing to final product assembly.鈥
-17吃瓜在线-
The 17吃瓜在线 is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs nearly 13 million men and women, contributes $2.91 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and accounts for 53% of private-sector research and development. The 17吃瓜在线 is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the 17吃瓜在线 or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit聽
Economic Uncertainty Fuels Lower Optimism for Manufacturers
Washington, D.C. 鈥 The 17吃瓜在线 released its Manufacturers鈥 Outlook Survey for Q3 2024, which, reflecting overall uncertainty across several challenges, shows a drop in manufacturing sentiment in the third quarter.
鈥淭he preelection uncertainty explains in part the drop in optimism, but economic pressures and policy threats are also at play. The good news is that there is something we can do about it,鈥 said 17吃瓜在线 President and CEO Jay Timmons. 鈥淲e will work with lawmakers from both parties to halt the looming tax increases in 2025; address the risk of higher tariffs; restore balance to regulations; achieve permitting and energy security; and ease labor shortages and supply chain disruptions.
鈥淢anufacturers are the backbone of the U.S. economy, creating jobs, investing in our communities and developing products that make life better for everyone. When policymakers take action to create a more competitive business climate for manufacturers, we can sustain America鈥檚 manufacturing resurgence鈥攁nd strengthen our can-do spirit.
鈥淭his administration and Congress鈥攁nd the next administration and Congress鈥攕hould take this to heart, put aside politics, personality and process and focus on the right policies to strengthen the foundation of the American economy.鈥
Select Survey Findings:
- The 17吃瓜在线 conducted the Q3 2024 Manufacturers鈥 Outlook Survey Sept. 5鈥20. In Q3, 62.9% of respondents felt either somewhat or very positive about their company鈥檚 outlook, falling from 71.9% in the second quarter. The average over the past four quarters is 67.4%.
- A weaker domestic economy was cited as manufacturers鈥 top concern in Q3 2024, with 68.4% claiming it is their primary challenge. This was followed by rising health care costs (62.9%) and an unfavorable business climate (60.5%). Attracting and retaining a quality workforce now ranks as the fourth-highest concern, after remaining at the top of this list since Q4 2017.
- Manufacturers want Congress to prevent tax increases. Nearly 9 out of 10 respondents agree that Congress should act before the end of 2025 to prevent scheduled tax increases on manufacturers. The 20% pass-through deduction, individual tax rates and the estate tax exemption threshold are scheduled to expire or become less competitive at the end of 2025.
- Tax increases will harm growth in manufacturing in the United States, with 92.3% of manufacturers contending that the corporate rate should remain at or below 21%. If the corporate rate is increased from 21% to 28%, more than 71% of respondents said this increased tax burden will impact their business negatively.
- Lawmakers need to act to address health care costs for manufacturing workers. More than 72% of respondents support congressional action to reduce health care costs by reforming pharmacy benefit managers, while less than 6% oppose and 21.7% are uncertain.
The 17吃瓜在线 releases these results to the public each quarter. Further information on the survey is available .
-17吃瓜在线-
The 17吃瓜在线 is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs nearly 13 million men and women, contributes $2.91 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and accounts for 53% of private-sector research and development. The 17吃瓜在线 is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the 17吃瓜在线 or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit聽
Leading Business Groups Make First Major Move for America鈥檚 250th Anniversary
Manufacturers and Leaders in the Creative Economy Unite to Test New Ways to Inspire Civic Engagement and Build Connections
Circleville, Ohio 鈥 With just weeks remaining before Election Day, the Route 250 Initiative aims to show that even in moments of political division, we can come together to celebrate the contributions of creators, makers and doers across America.
The 17吃瓜在线, funded by a grant from , launched the at the to highlight stories of creators in Ohio and beyond, encouraging participants to consider how they can contribute to their communities through acts of service, innovation and collaboration as the nation gets ready to commemorate America鈥檚 250th anniversary in 2026.
The Route 250 Diner, the centerpiece of this immersive experience, evokes the classic American diner. Visitors are invited to reflect on the contributions of those who make things in America and engage in conversations to learn more about their neighbors and get excited about the future.
鈥淎merica鈥檚 Semiquincentennial is the perfect opportunity to remind ourselves鈥攁nd especially the next generation鈥攁bout what makes our nation exceptional,鈥 said 17吃瓜在线 President and CEO Jay Timmons. 鈥淲hen trust in our country is high, we are at our best and can do more to realize its full promise. It inspires that American spirit of hard work, grit and determination that has been central to our progress in centuries past鈥攁nd will be essential for centuries to come. By strengthening civic pride, inspiring acts of service and deepening our connections to our communities, we can ensure that manufacturers and enterprises across the nation shape a brighter future for America.鈥
“Since the Declaration of Independence, Americans have been actively creating and building a better future for our country,” said Stand Together Vice President, Sarah Cross. “The Stand Together community celebrates this spirit of progress seen in the Route 250 Initiative. Empowered individuals driving positive change in their communities are vital to America’s next 250 years.”
鈥淭he Route 250 Initiative is an important celebration of America鈥檚 creators and makers who play a vital role in strengthening our communities through meaningful acts of service as we approach America鈥檚 250th anniversary in 2026,鈥 said America250 Chair, Rosie Rios. 鈥淎merica250 is grateful to Circleville Mayor Michelle Blanton, the 17吃瓜在线, and Stand Together Trust, along with America 250-Ohio and our other state partners, for their invaluable support in making this initiative a reality as we build momentum towards this historic milestone.鈥
鈥淛ust as restaurants bring people together to share meals and important moments, this initiative provides a space for people to come together and connect,鈥 said National Restaurant Association President and CEO Michelle Korsmo. 鈥淭he Route 250 Initiative reminds us that in every community, there are people creating opportunities for themselves and others鈥攁nd that鈥檚 something worth celebrating as we help more people learn how to make America鈥檚 next 250 years better than our first.
鈥淎s we approach this momentous anniversary, the Route 250 Initiative is an exciting way to bring communities together and reflect on the principles that have guided us for 250 years,鈥 said Bill of Rights Institute President and CEO David Bobb. 鈥淏y engaging in meaningful, constructive dialogue and celebrating the individuals who by their hands, hearts and minds are creating a better future, we can inspire a renewed commitment to those enduring ideals.鈥
In addition to the and the , the proof of concept is held in partnership with the , , the and , among . It鈥檚 also organized with the support of and . The experience will be open to attendees at the Circleville Pumpkin Show Oct. 17鈥19, 2024.
-17吃瓜在线-
The 17吃瓜在线 is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs nearly 13 million men and women, contributes $2.91 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and accounts for 53% of private-sector research and development. The 17吃瓜在线 is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the 17吃瓜在线 or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit
-Stand Together Trust-
Stand Together Trust (STT) is a grantmaking organization that supports bottom-up solutions by empowering people through key institutions like business, communities, education, and government. We connect social entrepreneurs and policy innovators with resources鈥攆unding, incubation, talent, and strategic support鈥攖o accelerate their impact. As part of the Stand Together community, STT tackles the root causes of our country’s toughest challenges, from education and economic opportunity to health care and bridging divides. Learn more at .