Does Donald Trump really want to tell Michigan autoworkers that they can’t compete? Because that’s what he’s doing as he lies about the quality of electric vehicles union workers are already building on the line. His crony JD Vance is even hinting he’d try to yank away half a billion dollars that’s supposed to keep GM workers on the job at an upgraded plant in Lansing. If voters buy what he’s selling, the auto industry is looking at hard times.
The bottom line is Michigan workers make great cars, electric and otherwise, and they know Michigan needs to stay competitive in the global race for quality electric vehicles. As we head into the final stretch of the 2024 presidential campaign, Vice President Harris wants to make sure they win that race, expanding good-paying jobs and driving economic development across the automotive sector. Meanwhile, Trump and his billionaire cronies are eager to make sure workers lose—they’d cut federal support for electric car factories and want to pretend that gas cars will rule the roost in fifty years even as companies worldwide are putting steel in the ground to open factory after factory for EVs. That’s a recipe for closed plants, statewide.
Donald Trump thinks he can stop history in its tracks by lying about it, leaving workers high and dry, and hoping no one outcompetes Michigan. Here’s the reality. Whether you’re an EV skeptic or not (and American-made EVs are great cars with incredible 0 to 60 times and best-in-class torque), the world market is turning to EVs. Michigan auto workers, and the Detroit Big Three, need to be able to compete in that global market or get left behind. Putting all of the state’s economy in one basket—betting on internal combustion to be the cars of 2050—isn’t wise. The Big Three know this—that’s why they’ve independently making big bets on EVs and don’t want political disruptions to real business plans—and so does the UAW, which secured good contracts for EV workers.
We know what happens when politicians play games or car company CEOs fail to meet the moment. It took decades to come back when the Big Three and American politicians failed to address the rise of the big Japanese auto companies in the 1980s and 90s. It could happen again if Trump gets his way: Ford’s CEO, looking at Chinese EV makers eager to compete, says he’s “seen this movie before.” Plus, it’s not just China. European companies and Mexican companies are rapidly moving toward EV production. The world market is going in the direction of electrification, and the question is whether the U.S. will keep up.
The good news is that Kamala Harris, Gretchen Whitmer, and Michigan workers live in reality, unlike Trump, and they know Michigan can lead the world. And they’re doing it: Michigan’s growing EV manufacturing industry is boosting economic growth in communities and local economies, and strengthening the state’s historic automotive workforce. And strong federal policies are crucial for ensuring that Michigan’s workforce and manufacturing sector are prepared to lead in the global transition to EVs. As Governor Whitmer likes to point out, “Made in Michigan” is a rallying cry for the state.
Michiganders deserve the facts when it comes to the issues that will affect their jobs, communities, and families the most. And while the Trump-Vance campaign continues to spout misinformation—all while financially benefiting from the industry—the truth is, EVs will prove fundamental for Michigan’s workforce, economy, and manufacturing legacy.
FACT: There Is No EV Mandate
Misleading attack ads are stoking fears of the government dictating driving choices. In reality, consumers are and will continue to be free to purchase the car of their choice. Electric vehicles continue to become more affordable and are an increasingly popular choice for consumers as battery range improves and charging stations become more available.
FACT: Biden-Harris Administration Policies Are Creating Union Jobs in States
The Biden-Harris administration's initiatives have spurred significant investments in Michigan's EV industry, creating thousands of high-quality, good-paying jobs in EV manufacturing and infrastructure development. Opponents claim that EVs are a direct threat to traditional auto jobs. In reality, the transition to EVs is growing the auto workforce, creating job opportunities, and helping revive American manufacturing.
FACT: Federal Investment Is Key to Economic Growth
Federal investments in EV technology are driving down the costs of batteries and production, making EVs more affordable and leading to long-term savings for Michigan residents. Recently, JD Vance declined to commit his and Donald Trump’s support to critical investments in Michigan, such as a $500,000,000 investment in Lansing that would save 650 jobs and create 50 new ones. Their silence indicates a willingness to sacrifice high-paying jobs, just to wage a misleading culture war against EVs.
FACT: EVs Are Beneficial for Consumers
With federal incentives and rebates backed by the Biden-Harris administration, EVs are becoming increasingly more affordable. Michigan drivers can save significantly on fuel costs due to cheaper electricity compared to gasoline. The push against EVs is being framed as a cultural issue rather than an economic opportunity. In contrast, the reality is that EVs are integral to Michigan's future in the global auto industry, protecting jobs and fueling economic growth.
FACT: Keeping Michigan an Auto Manufacturing Leader Means Staying Competitive on EVs
Falling behind on EVs just means ceding the market to big, non-union, companies in China and globally. Want plant closures? Listen to Donald Trump. Biden-Harris EV policies will help ensure Michigan remains a leader in the global auto industry, transitioning from traditional vehicle manufacturing to next-generation electric vehicles, which helps protect jobs and boost American economic competitiveness. Opponents suggest that investing in EV technology will harm Michigan’s economy. However, these investments are vital for sustaining jobs as other countries compete to lead the EV global market.
FACT: Trump, Vance, and Republicans Personally Benefit from the EV Industry While Opposing Its Expansion
Trump and other critics are constantly bashing EVs, while simultaneously profiting from the EV sector through financial ties with major EV companies, including Tesla CEO Elon Musk and Gotion. JD Vance, who has personally invested thousands of dollars in EV startups, is vocal in his opposition to federal EV policies, despite his former vested stake in the industry’s success. Ironically, most of the new EV investments and job benefits are flowing to Republican districts.
The contrast is stark: While Trump and Vance refuse to support critical investments that would save and create good-paying union jobs in Michigan, the Biden-Harris administration is driving unprecedented growth in the state's EV industry. Plus, Trump uses every opportunity to say Detroit sucks, while Kamala Harris sticks up for Michigan. It’s time to make sure Michigan remains a global leader in auto manufacturing, protecting jobs, and fueling economic growth for generations to come.