The Commerce Department released the latest monthly U.S. trade figures Wednesday. The overall goods and services deficit hit $41.4 billion in May, up by $3.8 billion from $37.4 billion in April.
Chinese imports accounted for 45.4 percent of the overall U.S. goods deficit and increased by $1.7 billion to $28.3 billion in May.
Said Alliance for American Manufacturing President Scott Paul:
"Some in Washington are saying that there’s been a great trade awakening this election season. With the presumed presidential nominees from both parties heavily campaigning on the economy, it is surprising that nothing has been done to address America’s massive goods deficit and its impact on U.S. jobs.
“The majority of voters cite trade as a top concern amid years of manufacturing job losses due to China’s massive overcapacity, weak policies and the growing trade deficit. Voters understand that shipping jobs overseas means less jobs domestically, and Americans want their jobs back.
“As both presidential candidates lay out their policy plans and head to their respective conventions, the time to consider trade policies is now. Both parties will meet in the heart of manufacturing communities and I urge our leaders to take a look around. When we import far more than we export, the citizens of places like Ohio and Pennsylvania pay the price."