(TheConservativeTimes.org) – The Biden-Harris administration just revealed its parting gift before vacating the White House: an economy in shambles that caused over 1,500 American workers to lose their jobs.
Sumitomo Corp has abruptly shuttered the plant, leaving 1,550 hardworking Americans jobless.
The company is the Japanese owner of the century-old Dunlop tire factory in Tonawanda, New York.
The Dunlop tire factory has been a staple of the Tonawanda community since 1923. Sumitomo Rubber cited financial losses and competitive pressures in the international tire market as reasons for the closure.
This sudden decision shocked local officials and employees, who received no warning nor had any discussion about the closure.
Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz expressed his frustration, “It appears this decision was made by the Japanese owner’s board without any discussion with local and state officials about the possibility of closure.”
“At no point did Sumitomo ask for any additional assistance to remain in operation, despite the fact we have always supported their efforts to succeed here in Erie County with tax incentives and assistance through the Erie County Industrial Development Agency,” he added.
The closure of the Dunlop factory is yet another blow to American manufacturing. It follows a disturbing trend in the Rust Belt, where jobs are increasingly being shipped overseas.
Rep. Nick Langworthy summed up the situation, “I mean, it comes as a shock. This is gonna really sting here for our regional economy.”
The impact of this closure extends far beyond the 1,550 workers directly affected. It ripples through the entire community, affecting local businesses, tax revenues and the region’s overall economic stability.
This situation is even more shocking because Sumitomo recently invested $140 million in the facility, including $129 million just last year.
Despite these investments, the company claims it could not find a buyer for the plant.
As production moves to Sumitomo’s existing global facilities, Americans have been left as witnesses of the erosion of American manufacturing prowess, the loss of good-paying jobs and an ailing industrial base.
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