Family-owned companies rally behind trade policies reshaping U.S. industry
American manufacturers are voicing strong support for President Donald J. Trump’s tariffs, crediting them with leveling the playing field, reviving domestic production, and reshoring jobs in key industries.
Across the country, businesses in steel forging, moldmaking, aerospace, defense, and plastics report that Trump’s trade policies are helping restore U.S. manufacturing after decades of unfair foreign competition.
What American businesses are saying
Walker Forge (Wisconsin)
“This is the first time in generations we have a president who puts American manufacturing first,” said President Will Walker. “Tariffs send a clear message that foreign companies can’t undercut our industrial base anymore.”
Franchino Mold & Engineering (Michigan)
President Mike Hetherington emphasized that tariffs help U.S. moldmakers compete against heavily subsidized Chinese firms. “We aren’t asking for protection — just fairness,” he said.
ELLWOOD (Pennsylvania)
“Unfair global trade practices have long hurt U.S. manufacturing,” said CEO Ben Huffman. “We support President Trump’s efforts to create a fair global system.”
Dyersville Die Cast (Iowa)
President Robert Willits praised Trump for keeping his promises to small manufacturers, calling the tariffs essential to protecting American industry.
TK Mold & Engineering (Michigan)
Thanks to tariffs, TK Mold received three new reshoring requests in just three days. “These policies are creating real opportunities,” said President Tom Barr.
Industrial Molds, Inc. (Illinois)
CEO Andy Peterson reported that tariff impacts reshaped their business forecast positively, leading to new domestic hiring plans.
Legacy Precision Molds (Michigan)
Vice President Tyler VanRee noted that quoting activity and new work orders have surged, driven by growing reshoring interest.
Campbell Press Repair (Michigan)
“Who knew about tariff imbalances before Trump?” asked President Pete Campbell, applauding the administration for addressing global trade disparities.
Westminster Tool (Connecticut)
Vice President Hillary Thomas said moldmaking inquiries rose 25% following new tariff announcements, helping maintain competitive U.S. production.
Metallus, Inc. (Ohio)
CEO Michael S. Williams backed expanded tariffs on steel, calling them “a victory for domestic producers and fair trade.”
Twin Cities Die Casting (Minnesota)
CEO Todd Olson reported that U.S. die casting has suffered under foreign subsidization, but tariffs are now helping rebuild the American market.
Manufacturing momentum builds in 2025
Businesses across multiple sectors are reporting tangible benefits from the Trump administration’s tariff policies, citing increases in domestic investment, reshoring of supply chains, and renewed confidence in American-made goods.
Industry leaders say maintaining and expanding fair-trade measures will be essential to sustaining the manufacturing revival.
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