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Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-12) released the following statement today in response to China’s recent changes in its exchange rate policy, which included setting the value of the renminbi nearly 2 percent against the dollar, and Republican Presidential Candidate Donald Trump’s comments in Birch Run, Michigan. The devaluation is the largest in two decades.

“While Mr. Trump and I don’t agree on many issues, his comments in Birch Run, Michigan regarding China’s currency devaluation were spot on. Countries like China that cheat and don’t play by the rules hurt good paying American jobs – like the ones we have right here in Michigan in the auto industry, and it needs to stop. I am pleased Mr. Trump made this point loudly and clearly when he visited Michigan.

“China’s recent action is a reminder that we must address currency manipulation. While the long-term impact of the policy change is not yet clear, there is no question that American workers deserve to be able to compete on a level global playing field. For that reason, we must enact strong, enforceable protections against currency manipulation so we can protect American workers if our trading partners engage in unfair practices. We’ve already seen what unfair currency practices by South Korea and Japan have done to our auto industry, and we cannot afford to lose more American jobs because other countries aren’t playing by the rules.

“I hope Republicans and Democrats can work together to stop China and others from cheating the system and stand up for American workers.”