Marco Rubio calls past trade policies a “terrible mistake” and vows to rebuild U.S. industry
Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the United States erred decades ago by abandoning domestic manufacturing, and announced a new program to retrain workers.
At a press event in Washington, D.C., Secretary of State Marco Rubio criticized policies adopted after the Cold War that prioritized cheap overseas production over domestic manufacturing. He described the decision as a “terrible mistake” that left the United States dependent on foreign suppliers for critical components. To address the issue, Rubio unveiled the Foundry School, a nationwide training initiative aimed at restoring American capabilities in manufacturing and design.
He emphasized that rebuilding the industrial sector will take multiple administrations and is vital for both economic prosperity and national security. Economic commentator Carol Roth echoed the concern, noting that while some goods may never be produced domestically again, defense and pharmaceuticals should be prioritized. Rubio’s remarks come as he is viewed as a potential 2028 Republican presidential candidate.
Why it matters
The remarks highlight a shift toward reviving U.S. manufacturing, affecting jobs, trade policy, and national security.
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