United Steelworkers (USW) International President Leo W. Gerard today criticized Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney for his jobs record and changing his mind on trade with China.

Currently, Romney is saying on the campaign trail that he will get tough with China and impose tariffs on Chinese-made products if they break the rules of international trade.

"That sounds like flip flopping," Gerard said. "Not long ago, he criticized the Administration for imposing tariffs on unfairly priced tires imported from China. It's just one more example of the many conflicting positions Romney has taken on issues from health care to taxes."

Gerard also cited Ampad Corp., an office supply manufacturer that the Romney-headed Bain Capital, drove into bankruptcy. Bain management fired hourly workers at its Marion facility before forcing them out on strike prior to closing the facility. When the company went public, it was saddled with increased debt, leading to more plant closings and employee layoffs. It eventually filed for bankruptcy protection ... more