Andrew Cuomo

Comparing Cuomo and Trump's 'Buy American' plans

On the presidential campaign trail, Donald Trump struck a chord with voters by promising to bolster the U.S. manufacturing sector. Since his election he has continued the theme with a “Buy American and Hire American” executive order, while other politicians, including Gov. Andrew Cuomo, have borrowed that rhetoric for similar campaigns of their own. Here’s how the efforts of the president and the governor compare.

The big quote

Trump: In his address to a joint session of Congress, February 2017: “This effort will be guided by two core principles: buy American and hire American.”

Cuomo: In a State of the State address, January 2017: “This initiative will reinvest in the talent that made this state and this country what it is today and strengthen our role as a global leader in manufacturing for years to come.”

RELATED: Seeking a buy-in for a 'Buy American' plan

The fine print

Trump: An executive order issued in April targets the “abusive use of waivers and exceptions that undermine ‘Buy American’ laws” through stricter enforcement, a review of trade deals and greater scrutiny of immigration and visas.

Cuomo: The governor in January called for a preference for American-made goods and products in any new state procurements exceeding $100,000. 

Products covered

Trump: Any goods or services, with an emphasis on steel and immigrant labor.

Cuomo: Any goods or services, with an emphasis on steel.

Products touted

Trump: Steinway pianos, Stetson hats, Wisconsin firetrucks and products from every other state

Cuomo: Wine, beer, yogurt and apples

What the critics say

Trump: The Trump Organization has long outsourced the production of its products overseas.

Cuomo: Canada, a major trade partner, criticized the proposal and kept it out of New York’s state budget.

RELATED: Labor is on the defensive in 2017

Prime projects

Trump: A proposed wall on the border with Mexico, which reportedly could be built by foreign companies.

Cuomo: The new Gov. Mario M. Cuomo Bridge, which reportedly is made of steel entirely sourced and fabricated in the U.S.

The follow-through

Trump: A “Made in America” week in July, which was widely seen as an attempt to distract from the investigation into Russian meddling in the U.S. presidential election.

Cuomo: Scaled-back legislation passed in June, which requires state contractors to use American steel and iron for road and bridge projects that cost more than $1 million.