Duval Times

In a recent opinion piece published in Newsweek, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) expressed his concerns over the sale of U.S. Steel and its potential impact on national security. Alongside Senators J. D. Vance (R-Ohio) and Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), Rubio has called on the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) to block the acquisition.

Rubio emphasizes that the sale of U.S. Steel is not just a symbolic representation of America's deindustrialization but also poses a real threat to the country's long-term economic and national security. He responds to critics who argue that Japan, the potential buyer, is a close ally to the United States, stating, "It is common sense that there are some things you shouldn’t entrust to others when you can do them yourself." Rubio believes that managing America's steel factories, which are vital for modern civilization, should remain under American control.

Addressing the argument that U.S. Steel is of little consequence to national security, Rubio points out that the defense needs of the country would significantly increase in times of war. He quotes the Department of Commerce, which states that "existing domestic steel production capacity would be unable to meet national security requirements" if faced with a conflict on the scale of World War II. Rubio emphasizes the importance of maintaining a strong defense industrial base and calls on CFIUS to fulfill its role in safeguarding national security.

Rubio also highlights the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, noting the dangers of relying on foreign companies for essential goods and services. He argues that basic sectors like steel should be taken as seriously as industries such as microchip manufacturing and artificial intelligence. In times of major conflict, American steel will be crucial to maintaining the country's freedom.

The concerns raised by Senator Marco Rubio and his colleagues highlight the need to carefully consider the potential consequences of the sale of U.S. Steel. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States will respond to their request.

For additional details, please follow this link: https://www.rubio.senate.gov/icymi-rubio-laments-sale-of-u-s-steel/