November 25, 2013

Today, U.S. Senator Rob Portman (R-Ohio) visited Chrysler’s Toledo Assembly Complex.  During his visit, Portman had the opportunity to meet with employees as he toured the assembly line and saw first-hand how the new Jeep Cherokee is manufactured.

“Manufacturing has really been the backbone of Toledo for a very long time. It’s our legacy here,” said Portman.  “Toledo was the glass capital of the world because of the innovation of this area and our solid industrial base, but it’s been a challenging time for Toledo as workers and businesses continue to struggle through a weak economy. We’ve been making Jeeps here in Toledo since 1941, and I believe that the same policies that can help Jeep to continue to succeed will also boost manufacturers and industry across our country.  Finding some common ground in Washington to tackle the problems this country faces—whether it’s our soaring debts, unsustainable entitlements, antiquated and complex tax code, lack of training for Americans who are out of work, or a dysfunctional energy policy—will go a long way to not only helping the auto workers, but the entire American economy.”

“Senator Portman is one of the American automakers' strongest supporters on Capitol Hill.  He is a key leader on international trade policy and fundamentally understands the importance of addressing issues like currency manipulation,” said Governor Matt Blunt, President of the American Automotive Policy Council.  “He has worked tirelessly to help create jobs and economic growth in communities throughout Ohio and the nation.”