Summary
President Donald Trump's tariffs, aimed at boosting U.S. manufacturing, have coincided with a decline in manufacturing jobs. Government data shows that the manufacturing sector has lost jobs over several months, despite some companies pledging investment in U.S. production.
Key Facts
- President Trump aimed to revive U.S. manufacturing with tariffs that make importing goods more expensive.
- The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported the U.S. added 119,000 jobs overall in September, but manufacturing lost 6,000 jobs that month.
- Manufacturing jobs have decreased by 58,000 since April, and by 94,000 over the past year.
- This decline began before Trump’s current term but worsened after his tariff policies.
- The White House says some companies are investing in U.S. production, citing gains in construction jobs.
- The PMIs, which measure manufacturing activity, indicate a contraction in the sector for several months.
- Economists are divided on the impact of the tariffs, with some critiquing their effectiveness.