Barrett’s T-Shirts Stir Controversy Over Manufacturing Claims
Republican Representative Tom Barrett, representing Michigan’s 7th District, is under scrutiny for selling t-shirts labeled as “Made in USA” on his campaign website, though they are reportedly manufactured in Haiti.
This issue gains significance as Barrett’s campaign emphasizes the importance of fostering domestic jobs and manufacturing. During an April visit to a Lansing machine plant, Barrett told WLIX that “We really want to onshore more of our own manufacturing.” He attributed progress towards this goal to policies implemented by President Donald Trump, despite a rise in offshored jobs the previous year.
The t-shirts, emblazoned with “Barrett Brigade” and featuring a helicopter silhouette symbolizing his service as a Black Hawk pilot, are advertised on his site as “100% cotton” and “Made in USA.” Yet, photos from August 2024 reveal tags stating “made in Haiti” and identifying Gildan, a Canadian company known for offshoring production, as the manufacturer.
The extent to which other campaign merchandise may also be produced abroad remains unclear.
Gildan has faced criticism over its labor practices. In 2023, the company terminated 64 employees at a Port-au-Prince factory who were striking over unpaid overtime. Previously, a report by the Toronto Star highlighted that wages paid by Gildan in Haiti were insufficient for workers to cover basic living costs.
As Barrett campaigns for a second term, his Democratic challenger will emerge from an Aug. 4 primary, where three candidates have secured labor union endorsements. Barrett, however, lacks labor support at this time.
Learn more about the story on American Journal News.
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