Why I bought a new GM vehicle built by Michigan workers

by: MarkSchauer

Mon Jun 08, 2009 at 17:02:17 PM EDT

While I certainly didn't run for Congress to defend the mistakes of the past, what's most important to me is protecting the working families in my district who rely on the auto industry to pay the bills and put food on the table.

For those who don't know, the 7th congressional district is home to the GM Lansing Delta Township Assembly plant, located just off I-69 in Eaton County. This world-class facility is where the GMC Acadia, Buick Enclave, and Saturn Outlook are built.

While the news of GM's bankruptcy filing one week ago today was certainly a tough blow for the state of Michigan, the Delta Township plant will actually be increasing production later this year as the Chevy Traverse is added to the plant's lineup. This is a move I personally advocated for to Fritz Henderson on his first day as CEO of GM.

That's the message I wanted to reinforce when my wife and I recently made the decision to purchase a new family vehicle-that even in these uncertain economic times, I'm willing to put my money where my mouth is and buy an American automobile.

Since my 2002 Saturn L Series is closing in on 200,000 miles and still running strong, the choice for us was easy. We visited Saturn of Grand Ledge and purchased a new Outlook that was built just a few miles down the road by local workers.

Today I visited the plant to take a tour of the facilities and personally thank the workers who built our new car. These hardworking men and women are the reason I'm committed to saving the auto industry-because this is about protecting and strengthening the American middle-class.

The road to recovery will undoubtedly have more bumps along the way, but the ride will be much smoother in a vehicle built by Michigan workers.

Below is a video of me after today's event at the plant: