NAM sees opportunity in election upheaval

"The Nov. 7 election should be seen not as a radical shift to the political left, but rather an expression of widespread frustration," says Jay Timmons, a senior VP with the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM). "I believe Rep. Nancy Pelosi will bring nontraditional allies together to forge consensus on key issues, and that will include the business community."

Timmons says manufacturing lost many stalwart friends in the elections, but that NAM will work aggressively with Congress for action on long-overdue legislation—particularly development of OCS natural gas resources, and renewal of the R&D tax credit. "The importance of manufacturing to our country transcends political considerations," he says. "The American people are weary of the negative tone of public discourse in Washington that prevents action on important issues. We can put partisanship aside and work together for economic growth. If we do, much can be accomplished for America's manufacturing economy and the 14 million employees who work there."