Full Measure After Hours: Jobs vs. Foreign Ownership Hosted by Sharyl Attkisson | Released on October 24, 2024

Introduction

In the October 24, 2024 episode of Full Measure After Hours, host Sharyl Attkisson delves into a pressing national issue through the lens of a local Michigan controversy. The episode, titled "Jobs vs. Foreign Ownership," explores the complex dynamics surrounding the proposed establishment of a new electric car battery component factory by Goshen Incorporated in Green Charter Township, near Grand Rapids. This development not only promises significant economic benefits but also raises national security concerns due to the company's foreign ties.

The Proposed Factory: Economic Promise or Security Risk?

Sharyl Attkisson sets the stage by highlighting the dual-edged nature of Goshen's investment. The company pledges to invest billions of dollars and create over 2,000 jobs in one of Michigan's poorest regions, potentially transforming Green Charter Township's economy. However, the factory's foreign ownership sparks a debate about the balance between economic growth and national security.

Pro-Plant Perspective: Bruce Borkovich and Chuck Thalen

Bruce Borkovich, a candidate for the township supervisor position, represents the pro-plant stance. Alongside Chuck Thalen, Goshen's general manager, they argue that the factory will bring much-needed economic revitalization to the area.

• Economic Benefits: Borkovich emphasizes the dire economic conditions of the county, stating, "This county is the third poorest in the state of Michigan... what we're bringing to this area is a better economic affluency" (05:39).

• Community Involvement: He highlights Goshen's commitment to the community through donations and active participation in local charities.

• Technological Advancement: Borkovich points out the strategic advantage the factory offers to Ferris State University, positioning it as a technical hub for electric vehicle (EV) development.

Chuck Thalen underscores Goshen's legitimacy by addressing concerns about Chinese ownership:

• Ownership Transparency: When questioned about Chinese ties, Borkovich clarifies, "There are no political decisions made for business" (02:33). Thalen further probes these claims, seeking assurance against Communist Party influence.

• Regulatory Compliance: Borkovich reassures listeners by detailing Goshen's adherence to U.S. regulations and successful completion of the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) review, stating, "We were voluntarily submitted for the CFIUS review. There were no negative findings" (07:47).

Concerns Against the Plant: Jason Cruz

Jason Cruz offers a vehement opposition to the factory, representing local concerns about national security and environmental risks.

• National Security Threats: Cruz asserts, "The Chinese government is a threat to our existence... they are certain that [the plant] will be used to attack our cybersecurity and our intellectual property" (10:51).

• Environmental Impact: He voices significant environmental worries, particularly the potential pollution of the Muskegon River watershed due to the factory's operations (12:33).

• Community Opposition: Despite overwhelming local opposition—surveys indicate that 65-90% of residents are against the plant—Cruz laments the lack of support from environmental groups, stating, "It's a fight. We're all alone" (12:33).

• Political Frustration: Cruz criticizes local politicians for disregarding public opinion, highlighting a disconnect between elected officials and community sentiments. He expresses deep distrust towards state leadership, particularly Governor Whitmer, and suggests that political agendas are overriding the community's best interests (15:14).

Community Impact and Political Dynamics

The episode delves into the polarized community dynamics in Green Charter Township and Macosta County. While proponents like Borkovich highlight the potential for economic upliftment, opponents like Cruz emphasize the risks associated with foreign ownership and environmental degradation.

• Local Elections and Public Sentiment: Borkovich notes, "People get more hung up on politics than what's right for their community," advocating for a community-focused approach (07:22). Conversely, Cruz points out that despite initial political support, recent surveys reveal significant public opposition, leading to political shifts and the ousting of pro-plant officials (09:36).

• National Implications: Both speakers agree that the local debate mirrors national tensions regarding foreign investment and national security. Borkovich mentions, "We're a different kind of redneck up here... we're politically savvy, committed, patriots" (18:16), indicating a broader movement against perceived foreign threats.

National Security and Regulatory Oversight

A critical aspect discussed is the role of federal regulatory bodies in overseeing foreign investments.

• CFIUS Review: Borkovich emphasizes that Goshen underwent a thorough CFIUS review with no negative findings, implying compliance with national security standards (07:47).

• Department of Energy Collaboration: He highlights Goshen's partnership with the Department of Energy on a $3.1 million project for battery material development, further validating the company's operations within U.S. regulatory frameworks (07:53).

However, Cruz remains skeptical of these assurances, questioning whether regulatory bodies can fully mitigate the inherent risks of foreign-owned enterprises in strategic industries.

Conclusion: A Microcosm of National Debate

Sharyl Attkisson concludes by illustrating how the Green Charter Township case encapsulates the broader national debate on foreign investment, job creation, and national security. The episode underscores the complexities communities face when balancing economic opportunities against potential threats, reflecting similar struggles across the United States.

Notable Quotes:

• "This county is the third poorest in the state of Michigan... what we're bringing to this area is a better economic affluency." — Bruce Borkovich (05:39)

• "The Chinese government is a threat to our existence... they are certain that [the plant] will be used to attack our cybersecurity and our intellectual property." — Jason Cruz (10:51)

• "People get more hung up on politics than what's right for their community." — Bruce Borkovich (07:22)

• "It's a fight. We're all alone." — Jason Cruz (12:33)

Timestamps Reference

• [05:39] – Bruce Borkovich on economic benefits
• [02:33] – Discussion on Chinese ownership
• [07:47] – CFIUS review and Department of Energy involvement
• [10:51] – Jason Cruz on national security threats
• [07:22] – Bruce Borkovich on community focus over politics
• [09:36] – Jason Cruz on local political shifts
• [12:33] – Jason Cruz on environmental concerns and lack of support
• [15:14] – Jason Cruz criticizes Governor Whitmer and political leadership
• [18:16] – Discussion on national implications and community activism

For those interested in the intricacies of local decisions impacting national narratives, this episode of Full Measure After Hours provides a comprehensive exploration of the challenges and stakes involved in balancing economic development with security and environmental stewardship.