Reviving America’s Manufacturing Power: A Vision for Economic Renewal

America is at a crossroads. With inflation rising, job losses mounting, and national debt soaring, John Gardner’s new book Manufacturer Local offers a timely solution. Gardner, a Southern California-based manufacturer, advocates for a return to a more self-sufficient economy by focusing on U.S. manufacturing. His ideas align with the broader vision of Steve Bannon, host of the WarRoom and a key figure in President Trump’s circle, who is pushing for a radical overhaul of the nation’s economic policies.

The Case for Tariffs Over Manipulated Free Trade

Free Trade is a good thing when everyone participates.  However, there are numerous ways for corrupt nations to agree to free trade and then actually restrict free trade.

In Manufacturer Local, Gardner argues that America thrived for over 140 years without income taxes or sales taxes. Instead, the U.S. relied on tariffs to protect its industries. Gardner contends that tariffs are essential to protecting American jobs and rebuilding the country’s manufacturing base. He calls for a shift away from the current “free trade policies” because they are manipulated free trade policies that have hurt American industries.

What Is the “External Revenue Service”?

One of the most provocative ideas in Gardner’s book is the concept of an "External Revenue Service.” This proposal seeks to replace the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), which taxes U.S. citizens, with a system that focuses on taxing foreign goods and services. By doing this, Gardner argues, America could protect its industries from unfair competition and reduce reliance on foreign imports.

Bannon, a staunch advocate for economic nationalism, fully supports this idea. He believes the current economic system is broken and must be reformed. "We need an External Revenue Service,” Bannon states. He argues that tariffs on foreign goods will help revive U.S. manufacturing and make America more economically independent.

Rebuilding America’s Manufacturing Base

Bannon’s endorsement of the “External Revenue Service” is part of his broader vision to rebuild America’s manufacturing base. According to Bannon, America cannot continue to rely on foreign countries for critical goods. He stresses the national security risks associated with outsourcing manufacturing to foreign nations, particularly those with exploitative labor practices.

Gardner and Bannon’s vision is clear: make America a global manufacturing powerhouse again. This means bringing jobs back to the U.S. and ensuring that American workers are not undercut by cheap labor from other countries. The focus is on creating jobs and boosting national security by producing critical goods domestically.

Why This Discussion Matters Now

As President Trump prepares for his return to office, these ideas are more important than ever. In just over a week, Trump will begin his second term with the goal of revitalizing America’s economy. During his first term, he implemented policies like tax cuts, deregulation, and tariffs, which had a positive impact on manufacturing. However, Trump’s second term promises to focus even more on economic nationalism and rebuilding U.S. industries.

Trump is likely to adopt ideas like those proposed by Gardner and Bannon. Their call for a shift from free trade to protectionist policies could reshape America’s role in the global economy. By focusing on tariffs and external taxation, Trump can rebuild U.S. manufacturing and strengthen the economy.

Moral and National Security Implications

Beyond economics, there is a moral argument for bringing manufacturing back to America. Gardner and Bannon point to the issue of goods produced using slave labor and exploitative practices in foreign countries. By manufacturing in the U.S., Gardner argues, Americans can ensure that their purchasing power supports ethical practices and local workers.

Additionally, the nation’s security is at risk when it relies on other countries for essential goods. Bannon and Gardner argue that a self-sufficient America is a safer America. Without the ability to produce its own goods, the country is vulnerable to supply chain disruptions and foreign influence.

The Path Forward for America’s Economy

The ideas put forward in Manufacturer Local and endorsed by Bannon present a bold vision for America’s future. As President Trump prepares for his return to the White House, these proposals could serve as the foundation for a new economic agenda. By focusing on tariffs, manufacturing, and the "External Revenue Service,” Trump has the opportunity to reshape the nation’s economy and restore American greatness.

Watch this full interview featuring John Gardner:

John Gardner On How To Make The U.S. A Manufacturing Superpower Again