In the midst of the day-to-day struggles Americans face to retain the dignity that comes with work, to keep food on tables, roofs overhead and medicines in cabinets, something broader has been lost. A country that defined itself by its uniqueness, that exalted in being No. 1, is no longer the strongest economy in the world in the eyes of its citizens. In fact, a measly 36 percent of likely voters believe the U.S. is the world economic leader, according to a poll we recently completed with our Republican colleagues at Ayres McHenry for the Alliance for American Manufacturing. (Neither our colleagues nor our clients bear any responsibility for the interpretations herein, I hasten to add.)

In the public mind, the cause of our economic decline is simple, clear and unambiguous – the withering of our manufacturing sector. Voters see manufacturing as the central and irreplaceable core of a strong economy.

As one focus-group participant put it, speaking for many, “If manufacturing is not successful, then the economy is not successful.”

Asked to identify the industry most important to the overall strength of the American economy, nearly four in 10 selected manufacturing, with healthcare second on the list, chosen by just over half as many. High tech and finance were each mentioned by only 12 percent.

Moreover, voters reject the notion that manufacturing can be replaced by other industries. Just 20 percent subscribe to the oft-repeated notion that “The strength of the American economy is innovation and competition – and if manufacturing leaves, we will move into new areas like high tech or services that will take its place in the future.” Fully two-thirds took the position that “Manufacturing is a critical part of the American economy and we need