Whatever Happened to ‘Buy American?’ The Pentagon recently awarded the French company, EADS, a $40 billion contract to build the next generation of air tankers for the U.S. Air Force. The United Chamber of Commerce of the San Fernando Valley believes this is a wrong decision for America. The current discussions between Congressional leaders and the White House over an economic stimulus package to boost our sagging economy is evidence that right now nothing is more important than a coordinated economic policy that protects U.S. jobs. The Pentagon could have stepped in and helped our country take a giant step forward by selecting the American company Boeing over its French competitor, EADS, for this contract. During the last century, Boeing built 2,000 air-refueling tankers and established its lasting reputation as an aviation leader in military hardware. That line of tankers has served our nation well. As they did during World War II, Americans were ready to roll up their sleeves and get to work on a superior tanker that could have proudly been “Made in America.” But by selecting the French company, EADS, the Pentagon has chosen to give away 44,000 jobs to European countries and subsidize their aerospace industry. Let me be clear the economic consequences of awarding this contract to EADS will be felt in the San Fernando Valley. Our region is giving up approximately $4 million annually in local investment and about 100 jobs to the French. Urge your Congressional Representative to ask the Pentagon to reconsider their decision. Let’s hope they will have the resolve to ask the tough questions about why our government is outsourcing this very important part of our economy and national security to a foreign company. Debi Schultze President & CEO United Chambers of the Valley Sherman Oaks, CA
