Senator John Cornyn (R) highlighted the role of the CHIPS for America Act and the CHIPS and Science Act in boosting U.S. semiconductor manufacturing, arguing that the investments have strengthened America's position in its strategic competition with China while creating thousands of jobs in Texas.
Why does Cornyn say semiconductors matter?
Speaking on the Senate floor, Sen. Cornyn emphasized the importance of maintaining America's competitive edge against China in critical industries, particularly advanced semiconductor manufacturing.
Cornyn argued that semiconductors are essential to the future of artificial intelligence, national security, advanced manufacturing, and economic growth, warning that the United States remains vulnerable to supply chain disruptions and foreign competition.
What is Cornyn saying
Senator John Cornyn: "Never in the history of the world has the United States' strategic competition with China mattered more."
Sen. Cornyn continued: "Perhaps the most critical nexus of this competition is in manufacturing in critical industries, such as advanced semiconductors."
What is the CHIPS for America Act?
Cornyn highlighted his work with Sen. Mark Warner (D-VA) to introduce the CHIPS for America Act in 2020. The legislation later became law through the National Defense Authorization Act and was fully funded through the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act.
According to Cornyn, the goal was to restore American leadership in semiconductor manufacturing and reduce dependence on foreign suppliers.
How has Texas benefited?
Cornyn said Texas has seen significant investment from semiconductor manufacturers, including Samsung and Texas Instruments, resulting in new fabrication facilities, workforce development programs, and expanded manufacturing capacity.
He noted that Texas now has the nation's second-largest semiconductor workforce, supporting more than 42,000 jobs.
The Bottom Line
Cornyn says the CHIPS and Science Act has helped strengthen U.S. semiconductor production, bolster national security, and position Texas as a leading hub for advanced chip manufacturing. He argued that the investments are an important step toward reducing America's dependence on foreign supply chains while competing with China in critical technologies.
