Paul Kanjorski has had a busy day in terms of press releases.  I will publish anything I find relevant when it comes to press releases, so today is a pretty relevant day, it seems (I get a lot more releases than I put up).

Kanjorski scored some points with me by directly confronting a company about outsourcing.  It’s a shame that any company puts profits before people, but such is the nature of capitalism.  At least we can complain about it.

WASHINGTON – Congressman Paul E. Kanjorski (PA-11) released the following statement after meeting with Christine Marcks, President of Prudential Retirement division, about the recent layoffs at Prudential’s office in Northeastern Pennsylvania.

“This afternoon, I had an open and frank discussion with one of the top executives from Prudential who is responsible for the decision to lay off employees at its Montage Mountain facility,” said Congressman Kanjorski.  “Though Prudential and many other companies face business pressures during these difficult economic times, it is incredibly disappointing that Prudential would choose to not only reduce its workforce, but also outsource those jobs to foreign workers.  Not only does this put American workers out of jobs, but it also negatively impacts our economy.  Prudential assured me that they are continuing to explore alternative methods to reach their financial goals, and I will continue to monitor their actions.  This conversation is not finished.”

“We must incentivize American companies to keep jobs here and hire American workers, and I will continue to work to create new policies to help maximize American employment at companies like Prudential,” added Congressman Kanjorski.  “Ms. Marcks stated that Prudential is fully committed to keeping this facility in Northeastern Pennsylvania and that there are currently 29 open positions at that facility in different divisions.  She added that any employees affected by the recent layoffs are encouraged to apply for these jobs.”

Congressman Kanjorski concluded, “I am deeply frustrated by Prudential’s decision to reduce its workforce in the area.  While the company claims that it is impacted by the difficult economy, so too are the people and families in Northeastern Pennsylvania.  Prudential’s actions are certainly not unnoticed.  I will continue to closely examine alternatives for these employees and to Prudential’s actions. Since I began my service in Congress, I have worked first and foremost to create jobs in Northeastern Pennsylvania, and I will continue to do everything that I can to help keep jobs in our communities.”