Obama says manufacturing ‘bright spot’ in economic recovery

President touts Cordray’s consumer advocacy

7/20/2011

COLUMBUS — President Barack Obama calls manufacturing a “bright spot” in the overall economic recovery that he says is moving more slowly than he’d like.

Obama told WBNS-TV of Columbus at the White House on Wednesday that, “We’ve actually seen more growth, faster in manufacturing than in the rest of the economy.” He pointed specifically to the auto industry, its importance in Ohio and the turnarounds at Chrysler and General Motors. He says the administration is investing in research that will lead to more manufacturing jobs in products for the 21st century.

Obama also touted former Ohio Attorney General Richard Cordray, his pick to direct a new consumer protection bureau, saying many Republicans in Ohio “complimented the job that he did as a balanced, thoughtful consumer advocate.”

Senate Republicans have said they want changes at the agency before confirming a director.