Reps. Mike Kelly and Marcy Kaptur Announce the House Automotive Caucus
WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Mike Kelly (R-PA) and Marcy Kaptur (D-OH) announced today that they will co-chair the bipartisan House Congressional Automotive Caucus during the 114th Congress. Created in 1983, the House Auto Caucus has a long history of reaching across the aisle to promote a strong and vibrant American automotive industry. Supported by a diverse group of automotive associations, the House Auto Caucus will continue the tradition of working with industry stakeholders to educate Capitol Hill policy makers and advance a legislative agenda that encourages an innovative, competitive, and growing automotive sector.
Statement from Co-Chair Rep. Kelly: “It is truly an honor to serve as the Republican co-chair of the House Auto Caucus. Having spent my entire life working in the auto industry, I know firsthand how crucial this sector is to our local and national economies. In my home state of Pennsylvania, the industry employs more than 250,000 men and women and provides nearly $5 billion in annual state revenues. As a car guy, I am very excited to have the opportunity to work with Rep. Kaptur and a growing group of committed members to help make our auto industry even stronger.”
Statement from Co-Chair Rep. Kaptur: “For many Americans, the auto industry is part of life, part of their community. No other industry drives so many retail jobs and so much commerce or is as closely linked to American manufacturing. In recent years, automotive manufacturing has played a critical role in the U.S. economic recovery and its success or failure is shared by families throughout the nation. In part because it is so central to the work of our nation, the auto industry is vulnerable to global forces and its security requires vigilant and concerted attention. That is why this Caucus is so important.”
At 53 members and growing, the House Auto Caucus will also be led by Representatives Dan Kildee (D-MI) and Chuck Fleischmann (R-TN) who will serve as Vice Co-Chairs.
Represented by manufacturers, suppliers, dealers, and the many auto affiliated businesses, the automotive industry employees more than 8 million American workers and generates more than $500 billion in annual compensation. The industry has a strong multiplier effect as it supports many other sectors through the purchase of raw materials, equipment, and services. Historically, the auto industry has contributed 3.5% of America’s total gross domestic product. Under the leadership of Co-Chairs Kelly and Kaptur, the House Auto Caucus will work with members to build upon this tremendous growth and ensure a prosperous future for this vital industry.
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