If the United States wants to claw its way back to economic self-determination, it should look not at China for the route forward, but at Germany. Such was the prescription issued Dec. 10 by U.S. Sen. Jim Webb (D-Va.), speaking at the Arlington Chamber of Commerce’s annual meeting.
Webb noted that Germany, while having a population just 8 percent of China’s, had a higher trade surplus, and is the world’s biggest exporter.
“They produce quality products that people want, they take care of their workforce - they are doing something right,” Webb said of the Germans, during a speech before about 320 Arlington business, political and civic leaders at the Sheraton National Hotel.
Webb’s politics long have been all but impossible to pigeon-hole, and in his speech there was something for everyone to cheer, or to criticize:
* He voiced support the recent tax deal between President Obama and the Republicans. “It’s going to put money directly into the hands of people who will spend it - it can recycle money in our economy, and get this country moving again,” he said. “I think everyone will benefit.”
* He criticized Obama for pandering too much to the left-leaning base of the Democratic Party, saying the president must work to take the country “where we need to be as Americans.”
* He reiterated his opposition to cap-and-trade energy legislation, pushing nuclear energy as a solution to the nation’s energy and economic security. “I still believe that’s a great way to go,” he said.
* He said the U.S. government needed to “hold onto our principles” when dealing with the Chinese government, but pressed for further engagement with the nations of East Asia and Southeast Asia. “We cannot afford to reduce our presence there, and we have so much to gain,” he said.
* He criticized Democratic leaders of the U.S. Senate for failing to focus on economic matters before tackling other issues. “It is no easier to understand it from the inside than it is from the outside,” he said of the Byzantine workings of congressional leadership.
Webb praised Arlington, a community where he at one time lived, and where his book-writing office has been located.
“This is a very special county. It’s blessed by people who have the right attitude toward preserving the quality of life,” he said.
Webb won a narrow victory over Republican incumbent U.S. Sen. George Allen in 2006. He has not publicly announced whether he plans to seek re-election.
His appearance at the Chamber’s 86th annual meeting pushed attendance to its highest point in at least a decade, Chamber president Rich Doud said.
