Statement from SOCMA’s President & CEO, Jennifer Abril, on the 2024 U.S. Election

November 6, 2024

ARLINGTON, VA – SOCMA’s President & CEO, Jennifer Abril, has released the following statement on the results of the 2024 election.

As President-Elect Trump prepares for his next term, we in the U.S. specialty chemical manufacturing industry are encouraged by his ongoing focus on strengthening American manufacturing, securing supply chains, and enhancing global competitiveness. These priorities promise to drive significant growth in the specialty chemical sector, which is well-positioned to deliver the advanced chemistries that power countless industries and enable businesses around the world to create essential products.

In recent years, our industry has made substantial investments in capital, talent, and facilities, preparing to meet rising demand both domestically and internationally. The next administration’s emphasis on onshoring and nearshoring—initiatives that gained momentum amid COVID-19-related supply chain disruptions—reinforces the importance of a resilient and secure domestic supply chain. By bringing operations closer to North American consumers, we not only reduce dependency on foreign suppliers but also foster job creation, innovation, and economic growth here at home.

Efforts by the Trump administration to repatriate essential manufacturing, especially for chemicals critical to national security, will be vital to strengthening the U.S. industrial base. Initiatives by the Department of Defense, Department of Energy, and other agencies to support domestic production of critical materials underscore a commitment to securing America’s supply chain and maintaining our competitive advantage.

To fully realize the growth potential of the specialty chemical industry, we urge the Trump administration to prioritize policies that foster innovation, streamline regulatory processes, and encourage domestic manufacturing. A stable regulatory environment allows companies to make strategic investments and respond quickly to changing demands. Additionally, an R&D-focused tax code is critical to sustaining innovation, while trade policies that address tariffs and global competition will help U.S. companies thrive in the international market. At the same time, workforce challenges persist, including shortages in skilled labor. Investments in employee training, safety practices, and modernization will be crucial to meeting these challenges and ensuring a capable workforce.

The specialty chemical manufacturing industry stands ready to support the Trump administration’s vision for a robust, resilient economy that drives innovation, job creation, and national security. With continued investment and a streamlined regulatory framework, we are confident in our ability to meet America’s security needs, support economic resilience, and lead the way in chemical innovation. We look forward to partnering with the administration to build a stronger, more competitive future for the U.S. specialty chemical sector.

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