WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., today issued the following statement after Toyota announced it would delay production at its plant in Blue Springs:

“This is an unfortunate reminder that Mississippi is not immune to the global economic slowdown.  Today’s news is disappointing, but I am encouraged by Toyota’s commitment to finishing construction and to getting the Blue Springs plant operational as soon as market conditions allow.  As a leading hybrid vehicle, the Prius has a very bright future in our country.  And while it may have been delayed by the economic downturn, I am confident Mississippi workers will still play an important part of that future.”