SteelBriefs | Rep. John Katko (NY-24) Profile

Why did you join the Congressional Steel Caucus?

The steel industry has been a major economic driver in Central New York for decades, and I am proud to represent the hardworking men and women of Nucor Steel in Auburn, NY. As a member of the Congressional Steel Caucus, I am proud to join my colleagues in supporting America’s steel manufacturers and ensuring they have a strong voice in Congress.

What is the steel industry’s impact in your congressional district? And in America?

Steel manufacturing is critical to the economic wellbeing of my district, with Nucor Steel Auburn employing 300 workers. Since every steel job supports an additional five to seven jobs, the local steel industry has an immense impact on the community. However, the impact on our region is not just economic. As Central New York faced the impact of  the COVID-19 pandemic, local blood supplies ran low. In response, Nucor Steel hosted a record-breaking blood drive with help from the Auburn community. Our region is incredibly grateful for the significant contributions the steel industry has made, and continues to make, to our economy and community.

Our industry’s legislative priorities this Congress are: ensuring unfair trade practices are addressed, including preserving the Section 232 steel tariffs and quotas; and, investing in infrastructure. What are your thoughts on these issues?

America’s steel producers are the best in the world, and they play a vital role in our economy. That important role is threatened when foreign competitors subject American producers to unfair trade practices. Notably, many foreign competitors receive illegal government subsidies and attempt to dump their products in the U.S., hurting local companies and their workers. In Congress, I’ve worked tirelessly to ensure our trade laws are strongly enforced and was proud to lead a successful push to renew critical anti-dumping measures.

I also recognize the importance of repairing our nation’s crumbling infrastructure and the significance of these efforts to America’s steel manufacturers. That’s why, as a leader on the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, I’m continuing to work across the aisle and push for the consideration of a consensus-driven infrastructure package that will create significant opportunities for American companies and workers

Our industry’s sustainability story is a major topic also, as our member companies continue to work as strong environmental stewards. What are your thoughts on sustainability in the manufacturing sector?

I have always believed it’s crucial for Americans and American manufactures alike to act as thoughtful stewards of our environment. In my district in Central New York, we have some of the cleanest rebar production in the world, with Nucor Steel in Auburn’s products containing 97% recycled material. I commend and support the steel industry’s ongoing work to protect and preserve our environment for future generations.

Do you have any other comments or statements about the steel industry?

The steel industry helped lay the foundation for the American economy and has played many crucial roles throughout our nation’s history. Now, as our country undertakes efforts to rebuild our infrastructure and strengthen domestic manufacturing, American steel remains essential to achieving these goals. I’m proud to represent a district that has been able to grow and develop with the help of the steel industry, and I’m excited to continue to advocate for this vital industry in Congress.