Why It Matters

Dexter Axle’s entry into federal lobbying directly addresses Section 301 tariffs on Chinese imports which are inflating costs for trailer axle components. The tariffs are threatening the company’s competitiveness and domestic production viability.

The stakes extend beyond Dexter Axle. The RV industry generates $140 billion in annual economic impact, with Elkhart County accounting for 84% of U.S. RV production. Factory employment dropped over 40,000 jobs since April 2025 despite tariff protections, undercutting pro-tariff rhetoric and creating political space for targeted relief advocacy.

By the Numbers

Dexter Axle Co. LLC is making its first formal entry into federal lobbying, having retained Sandler, Travis & Rosenberg PA effective January 1, 2025. The firm brings substantial trade policy expertise, with over 1,100 disclosures and $13.2 million in reported activity since 2003.

Dexter Axle is a specialized trade law firm. Its lobbyist, Edward G. Steiner, recently secured Section 301 relief for manufacturers like Piper Aircraft, preserving 1,000 jobs.

Edward G. Steiner, a registered lobbyist since 2008, previously represented manufacturers including SuperATV LLC, Renfro Corp., and Doosan Bobcat North America Inc. on tariff issues. He brings 6 years and 8 months of congressional experience, including as Legislative Director for Rep. Loretta Sanchez (D-CA).

The Agenda

Dexter Axle Co. LLC, based in Elkhart, Indiana, is lobbying exclusively on Section 301 tariffs—the China-focused trade duties that have significantly increased costs for manufacturers relying on imported components.

The company seeks targeted exclusions or relief mechanisms allowing it to continue manufacturing competitively while sourcing necessary components. Section 301 tariffs have created severe operational pressures on U.S. manufacturers dependent on global supply chains, directly threatening the economics of trailer axle production for the RV and commercial trailer industries.

Broader Context

The effective U.S. tariff rate has climbed to approximately 18% in 2025, with Section 301 duties on Chinese goods ranging from 7.5% to 25%. Despite tariffs intended to protect domestic production, factory employment has declined by over 40,000 jobs since April 2025, and the ISM manufacturing index has fallen for eight consecutive months.

The RV industry faces particular strain from expanded Section 232 steel and aluminum tariffs and 25% tariffs on medium and heavy-duty vehicle parts.

Congress remains divided, but Rep. Mike Haridopolos (R-FL) successfully secured tariff relief preserving 1,000 jobs at Piper Aircraft. Rep. Rudy Yakym III (R-IN-2) champions the RV industry, while pending legislation like the Promoting Resilient Supply Chains Act could create opportunities for targeted relief.

Between The Lines

Congress remains sharply divided on tariff policy. Pro-tariff members like Rep. Ralph Norman (R-SC) strongly support trade restrictions, while critics including Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) warn that broad tariffs would "crush" manufacturing sectors.

The Piper Aircraft precedent demonstrates that focused lobbying for specific product exclusions can succeed. Rep. Rudy Yakym III (R-IN-2), representing Elkhart’s district, actively champions the RV industry. Senate Finance Committee members have acknowledged that tariff costs "can be disastrous for companies reliant on imported goods."

The Restoring Trade Fairness Act would subject all Chinese imports to higher tariffs, while the bipartisan Promoting Resilient Supply Chains Act could create domestic reshoring incentives.

Competitive Landscape

Dexter Axle enters a crowded field of manufacturers lobbying on Section 301 tariffs. The Truck Trailer Manufacturers Association Inc. and National Trailer Dealers Association provide industry advocacy, while companies like Halstead New England Corp. actively engage on Section 301 tariffs.

Sandler, Travis & Rosenberg PA represents major manufacturers including FCA US LLC, Leviton Manufacturing Co., and HanesBrands Inc. on trade issues, positioning it as a key player in Section 301 advocacy.

The Bottom Line

Dexter Axle has hired experienced trade lawyers to navigate punitive tariffs threatening its supply chain. The company faces mounting pressure from Section 301 tariffs despite declining factory employment nationwide. Success hinges on framing tariffs as economically counterproductive to domestic manufacturing while leveraging local champion Rep. Rudy Yakym III and the Piper Aircraft precedent for targeted relief.

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