More Arguments on Buying American

In “The Drive to ‘Buy American,’ ” Peter Brown, editor of Automotive News, states that patriotism will not work to increase sales of American cars.

He may be right. Americans need to be challenged to buy American cars out of self-interest. Since one out of six jobs in the United States is related directly or indirectly to the auto industry, it is vital that Americans realize that they can end the trade surplus with Japan and increase employment by the simple expedient of buying an American car the next time they are in the market.

Some say that we should take note of the fact that many Japanese nameplates are manufactured here, and that creates many jobs. True, but where do the profits go? Back to Japan where more investment is made to penetrate our markets.

I know of a developer who recently went broke. In his garage sit a Lexus and a BMW. He doesn’t see the connection, but who does he think will buy his tract homes? Certainly not the Japanese or Europeans.

Our slogan should be: Buy American. The job you save may be your own.

JAMES E. CARLSON

Santa Ana