Trump talks economy, criticizes Harley-Davidson

MOUNT PLEASANT, Wis. — President Donald Trump highlighted his economic policies Thursday in Wisconsin at the groundbreaking for a $ 10 billion Foxconn factory complex expected to bring thousands of jobs to the state.

“America is open for business more than it has ever been open for business. Made in the USA: It’s all happening and it’s happening very, very quickly,” Trump said after visiting the future Foxconn factory. “Today we’re seeing the results of the pro-America agenda. America first, make America great again. Greatest phrase ever used in politics, I suspect.”

Trump’s celebration in the Badger State came against a backdrop of lessrosy economic news: Harley- Davidson recently announced it is moving some motorcycle production overseas to avoid European Union tariffs that are a product of Trump’s escalating trade dispute with long-standing U.S. allies.

The president was irked by the Milwaukee- based company’s announcement this week, tweeting that any shift in production “will be the beginning of the end” for the American manufacturer and even threatening retaliatory taxes.

“Harley-Davidson, please build those beautiful motorcycles in the U.S. Build them in the USA. Don’t get cute with us. Don’t get cute,” Trump said Thursday in Wisconsin. “I spent a lot of time with them. Build them in the USA. Your customers won’t be happy if you don’t.”

Trump highlighted Foxconn’s investment in the U. S. as statistics show an overall decline in the purchase or construction of factories and facilities in America by foreign companies.

Such investment fell 40 percent last year after hitting record levels in 2015 and 2016, according to U.S. government data analyzed by the Organization for International Investment. The organization represents large overseas companies such as Toyota, Nestle and Sony. Foreign investment remained weak in the first three months of 2018.

Gov. Scott Walker and House Speaker Paul Ryan, R-Wis., were among those joining the president at fundraisers and the Foxconn event.

Trump, for his part, defended his decision to put tariffs on steel and aluminum and showcased his business-friendly agenda.

“I’m pleased to report that Foxconn intends to build 100 percent of the factory with beautiful American concrete and beautiful American steel, made right here,” Trump said.

Foxconn is the world’s largest electronics contract manufacturer and assembles Apple iPhones and other products for tech companies. Based in Taiwan, it chose Wisconsin after being prodded by Trump and others, including Ryan, whose district will include the plant.

The project could employ up to 13,000 people, though opponents say it is costing Wisconsin taxpayers too much.

“Today we’re seeing the results of the pro-America agenda. America first, make America great again. Greatest phrase ever used in politics, I suspect.” — President Donald Trump