Biden touts chip funding at virtual appearance at Hemlock Semiconductor

President Joe Biden on Tuesday touted $52 billion in funding for domestic semiconductor chip production during a remote appearance at the Hemlock Semiconductor outside of Saginaw.

He had planned to visit Michigan in person, but appeared remotely instead after testing positive Saturday for COVID for the second time in less than two weeks. 

“The auto industry is the heart and soul of the nation… it’s about the future, it’s about America’s future,” Biden said. “One of the reasons why I’m so excited about CHIPS and Science Act is that it sees a future for decades to come.”

The event coincided with Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signing an executive directive to ensure the state “is ready for the influx of resources” appropriated through the new legislation, according to the directive.