UAW boss praises Trump and his tariffs after months of ridicule during election

President Donald Trump’s recent implementation of major tariffs on foreign-made automobiles and parts has sparked an unexpected alliance with United Autoworkers (UAW) President Shawn Fain, a longtime political adversary. While Fain criticized Trump’s decision to end collective bargaining for federal workers in a CBS interview, he surprisingly praised the president during a speech at Wayne State University in Detroit.

Fain, known for his past opposition to Trump and his support for former Vice President Kamala Harris, commended the president for taking action on trade deals like NAFTA. He emphasized that despite their political differences, he recognized the importance of integrity in working together on issues such as tariffs.

In response to Trump’s 25% tariffs on outsourced cars and auto parts, Fain acknowledged the impact on domestic brands like Chevrolet, which produces vehicles in Mexico and closed its Lordstown, Ohio, plant in 2020. He highlighted the need for U.S. automakers to prioritize domestic production and address corporate greed in pricing strategies.

While Fain acknowledged the challenges of shifting production back to the U.S., he called for automakers to seize the opportunity to invest in American manufacturing and prioritize the interests of blue-collar workers. A White House spokesman welcomed Fain’s support for the tariffs, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to promoting American manufacturing and job growth.

Moving forward, Fain and the UAW’s endorsement of Trump’s tariffs signal a potential shift in the political landscape, with a focus on protecting American workers and revitalizing the domestic auto industry. As discussions around trade policies continue, the collaboration between Fain and the Trump administration underscores the importance of bipartisan cooperation in addressing economic challenges and supporting American workers.