Story perspectives

Manufacturing Jobs Vanish Amid Promised Economic Boom

3/21/2026

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Center

Trump's Manufacturing Challenge

The U.S. manufacturing sector faces challenges as U.S. President Donald Trump promises a boom, while nearly 100,000 jobs have vanished since 2025.
The Conn Selmer plant is closing, and workers fear for their futures as the deadline nears.
Economist Robert Lawrence warns that even if manufacturing jobs return, they may not boost the economy.
Licking County Commissioner Tim Bubb notes the need for a trained workforce to support a resurgence.

Left

Dawson Faces Layoffs

Over 100,000 manufacturing jobs have been lost since U.S. President Donald Trump took office.
Beverly Dawson was laid off from Whirlpool's Amana plant in Iowa as production shifted to Mexico, halving the workforce.
Experts say Whirlpool's tariffs have not reversed the decline in U.S. manufacturing.
Rising costs and layoffs leave workers frustrated as appliances sold are overseas.
Local economies face reduced job security and weaker safety nets for displaced workers.

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Trump's Manufacturing Challenge

The U.S. manufacturing sector faces challenges as U.S. President Donald Trump promises a boom, while nearly 100,000 jobs have vanished since 2025.
The Conn Selmer plant is closing, and workers fear for their futures as the deadline nears.
Economist Robert Lawrence warns that even if manufacturing jobs return, they may not boost the economy.
Licking County Commissioner Tim Bubb notes the need for a trained workforce to support a resurgence.

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