Staff Reports
Sen. Dave McCormick didn’t whisper a hopeful slogan at the Pennsylvania Defense and Innovation Summit — he made a bet. On the sidelines of the event, he told reporters he’d “pick our hand” over China’s in the race for global supremacy, and he pointed to real cash and factory plans as proof that America is waking up and building again.
McCormick’s Straight Talk: We Can Win — If We Act
At the summit, Sen. Dave McCormick framed the contest with China as one of choices, not fate. He blamed decades of bad trade and globalization decisions for hollowing out steel and shipbuilding, then praised President Trump’s “peace through strength” approach for reversing that trend. The message was blunt and simple: policy matters, and when Washington backs manufacturing, factories and defense work follow.
Money on the Table: Nippon–U.S. Steel Shows a New Playbook
McCormick pointed to the big Nippon–U.S. Steel transaction and the roughly $11–$14 billion in pledged investments as a sign the industrial comeback is real. The deal moved forward with a national‑security arrangement that gives the U.S. oversight — the kind of “golden share” protection that makes sure critical capacity stays American-first. That’s a practical win for national security and for workers, not just empty rhetoric.
From Scranton Ammo Lines to Mon Valley Mills: Jobs Matter
He named concrete projects: artillery shells in Scranton, next‑generation combat vehicles in York, drone and hypersonic work across the commonwealth, and new steel investment in the Monongahela Valley. Those are the kinds of things that make a difference in swing states and the supply chain. To be fair, McCormick’s “first new mill in 50 years” line about Mon Valley is his characterization and should be checked with company and local officials — but the larger trend of renewed investment is unmistakable.
Why Conservatives Should Cheer and Keep Pressing
This is exactly the argument Republicans should make: secure supply chains, strong industry, and robust defense manufacturing are patriotic and practical. Celebrate wins, demand follow‑through on timelines and contracts, and don’t let the grownups in government forget oversight agreements that protect American jobs. If Washington keeps making smart choices and backing real investment, I’ll take our hand — and I bet most Americans will too.
