Would the United States expand battleship production?

Would Germany's standardized fleet cause the United States to increase battleship production?

Possibly, but too slowly to affect the immediate program because Congress would need time to authorize and fund the expansion.

The United States could ultimately enlarge its battleship program, but its political system cannot react on the British timetable. Congressional authorization and funding take time, and the decision would arrive after the immediate North Carolina-class construction opportunity had passed. Britain can accelerate more quickly because the relevant ships and programs are already inside an established parliamentary rearmament policy. American leaders would also be wary of starting a building contest with a British government that has both the yards and the political commitment to answer. Political lead time and the risk of a wider naval race limit the immediate American response.