Scrutiny on Michigan Candidate’s “Made in America” Slogan

A Democratic congressman vying for a seat in the Michigan state legislature is promoting a “Made in America” theme. However, his background reveals a complicated relationship with outsourcing.

Matt Marsdam, a former Navy SEAL, has faced criticism for seeking to bring manufacturing back to the U.S. even though he has relied on overseas production during his stints at Under Armor and at two other companies he founded, one of which is known for producing jeans favored by Joe Rogan.

As he competes in the crowded 2024 primary against Republican Rep. Tom Barrett, Marsdam’s campaign website emphasizes his intent to increase domestic production, fair wages, and independent supply chains, particularly away from reliance on countries like China.

Despite this stance, records from 2022 indicate that his company, PECOS Outdoor, was examining products from Chinese vendors. Shipment records reveal a container with samples from a Chinese import company was received that year.

Moreover, both Under Armor and Rebtown, the clothing company he co-founded, outsourced production to foreign nations. Marsdam’s campaign manager, Emma Grundhauser, defended him by stating that he embarked on creating American-made products “not because it’s easy, but because it’s the right thing to do.”

She also pointed out that unions in Michigan endorse Marsdam, believing he will advocate for job growth, in contrast to Barrett, who supported tariffs resulting in significant U.S. manufacturing job losses.

During a recent candidate forum, Marsdam claimed manufacturing jeans in the U.S. is nearly impossible, attributing the offshoring to industry constraints. He acknowledged his experience at Under Armor, where many items were produced internationally, admitting, “I wanted that product to be made here, and we weren’t.”

After serving as a military aide during Barack Obama’s presidency, Marsdam transitioned into the private sector and founded Rebtown, which is recognized for jeans that gained approval from Rogan.

Despite his claims of focusing on American manufacturing with PECOS Outdoor, the 2022 shipment records indicate ongoing connections to overseas vendors. PECOS and Rebtown have not yet responded to requests for comment regarding these issues.

Amidst these developments, House Speaker Mike Johnson and the Republican Party are focused on retaining the Michigan seat to secure their Senate majority, while Democrats view this district as a potential opportunity to reclaim the House.

In response to the scrutiny, a spokesman for the National Republican Congressional Committee remarked that Marsdam has profited from offshore labor and is prioritizing his financial interests over Michigan workers.