Witness Power advocates for US manufacturing revival amid Chinese competition

The U.S. House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform convened on April 29, 2025, to address the urgent need for revitalizing American manufacturing, a topic underscored by witness testimony highlighting the significant deindustrialization of the country over the past four decades.

During the meeting, witness Mr. Power, who emigrated from Australia five years ago, emphasized the critical state of U.S. manufacturing, attributing the decline to both domestic policy missteps and aggressive foreign competition, particularly from China. He pointed out that while the U.S. has viewed manufacturing through the lens of globalism and free trade, China has strategically prioritized its manufacturing capabilities, which has led to a substantial loss of American industrial strength.

Mr. Power's remarks resonated with the committee's focus on the importance of maintaining a robust domestic manufacturing base, especially in light of national security concerns. He recalled how the U.S. successfully transitioned its manufacturing capabilities to support the defense sector during World War II, suggesting that a similar approach is necessary today to address current vulnerabilities.

The committee's discussions reflect a growing recognition of the need to reclaim manufacturing capabilities and ensure that the U.S. can produce essential goods domestically. This meeting marks a pivotal step toward igniting an industrial renaissance, with implications for job creation, economic stability, and national security.

As the committee continues its work, stakeholders are encouraged to engage in the conversation about how best to support American manufacturing and safeguard the nation's economic future. The path forward will require collaboration between government, industry, and communities to foster an environment conducive to manufacturing growth and innovation.