"We aren't leveraging this great economic engine, the strongest economy in the world. And yet we have this totally weak response. We import $500 billion a year more in products than we export"

This quote by Jennifer Granholm is referring to the existing state of the US economy. She is explaining that in spite of having the greatest economy in the world, the US is not taking full advantage of it. This is evidenced by the reality that the US imports $500 billion more in items than it exports. Granholm is recommending that the United States requires to take a more powerful position in order to leverage its financial engine and take advantage of its economic strength. She is most likely advocating for more financial investment in US-made product or services, as well as increased exports, in order to produce a more well balanced trade relationship. Eventually, Granholm is emphasizing the value of taking full advantage of the US's economic power in order to ensure its continued success.