FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Jamie Hanks
(202) 225-8490

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Rodney Alexander, R-Quitman, today issued the following statement after the official announcement of the economic development project at the former Guide plant in Ouachita Parish was made – the new auto manufacturer is expected to generate 1,400 direct jobs, as well as 1,800 indirect jobs, producing nearly $20 billion in economic activity during the first 15 years of production:

“Today’s announcement demonstrates that Louisiana steps up to the plate when competing for new growth opportunities,” said Alexander.  “This project will transform our economy and create good-paying jobs for our talented workforce, and, undoubtedly will ensure this growth and opportunity continues well into the future.”
 
“Not only is this the largest economic development project happening in the country, but it is equally as exciting to see Northeast Louisiana on the front steps of change in the automotive industry.

“I have learned that you can never sit back and wait for things to get better.  I loudly applaud our governmental officials and James Davison for rolling up our sleeves, working together and making this happen.  We cannot afford to wait for economic recovery to find its way to us…we have to go out ourselves and get it.”