Last night, Commerce Secretary John Bryson submitted a resignation letter to President Obama. Bryson cited the potential for distractions resulting from his two car accidents earlier this month.

In the letter Bryson said:

This is a critical period for our country’s economy. We must each day continue to support the growth of America’s businesses, exports and manufacturing and the vitally important jobs they create.

In May, the Alliance for American Manufacturing(AAM) reported on a speech that Bryson made to the Steel Manufacturers Association.  It revealed Bryson's understanding of the link between manufacturing and the wider U.S. economy.

Said Bryson at the time:

There is an inextricable link between America’s ability to produce and America’s ability to innovate, compete and create jobs. Everyone here knows the facts. Manufacturing is responsible for 70% of our private sector R&D, 90% of our patents, and 60% of our exports. In addition, the Commerce Department released a report just last week showing that manufacturing workers earn pay and benefits about 17% higher than other workers… Looking forward, the Commerce Department will continue to provide the tools and information that steel manufacturers need to conduct R&D, to innovate, and to make high-quality products.

At AAM, we hope the next commerce secretary shares Bryson’s interest in manufacturing and is committed to growing the sector as a key component in stimulating the U.S. economy.