Protecting American Industry: A Call to Congress, 1945-04-05

Sylvan I. Stroock, the President of S. Stroock & Co., Inc., wrote a letter to the House Ways and Means Committee urging them to vote against Bill HR 2652, which proposed an extension of the Trade Agreements Act allowing further reductions in tariff rates. Stroock argued that Congress should reclaim its constitutional powers in making commercial treaties and writing tariff bills, rather than leaving it to the Department of State. He highlighted the potential negative impact of reducing tariffs on American industries, particularly in the woolen manufacturing sector, due to lower labor costs abroad. Stroock emphasized the importance of protecting American businesses and preserving the American way of life.