From what I have been reading and have personally experienced the "Made in America" designation does not have the kind of ring to it as it once did. My preference is to keep my money in the good 'ole USofA, but I can tell you that the quality of products that are coming in from overseas has taken a quantum leap for the better. I personally have a Breedlove Atlas series guitar that is assembled in the United States (Washington State i believe). The tone woods and hardware however come from Asia. I can personally attest to the quality of the workmanship of my guitar.

As far as Mexican made strats and teles are concerned. No problem there. In fact I'm in a market for one now.

Hope this helps