Former President Donald Trump criticized President Biden, Democrats, and the big three automakers over electric cars in his recent remarks in the Detroit suburbs. Trump made these statements as his Republican opponents were preparing for the second GOP presidential debate in California.
Speaking at the non-union plant, Drake Enterprises, in Clinton Charter Township, Michigan, Trump took the opportunity to address the United Auto Workers (UAW) union members who were striking in 20 states. He praised their work and expressed support for the auto workers, saying they do not receive the credit they deserve.
However, Trump also criticized automakers for investing in electric cars, calling them “stupid or gutless.” He claimed that electric cars do not have enough range and are too expensive. He further criticized President Biden’s record on auto manufacturing and workers, stating that his policies are leading to the decline of the auto industry.
Trump emphasized that he announced his visit to the Detroit area before President Biden, suggesting that Biden’s visit was in response to his presence. He also expressed hope that UAW and other union leaders would endorse him, despite their tendency to endorse Democrats.
The Democratic National Committee set up anti-Trump billboards in Detroit ahead of Trump’s visit. Additionally, the Biden campaign released a new ad in Michigan attacking Trump as anti-union. The Trump campaign dismissed Biden’s visit as a “PR stunt” and accused him of trying to distract from his own economic policies.
Trump has been criticizing Biden’s support for electric vehicles for days, while his Republican opponents took the stage for the second GOP presidential debate in California. Despite opting not to participate in the debates, Trump maintains a strong lead in the polls over his Republican challengers.
During his remarks, Trump referred to the debate as a “jobs” debate and joked about potential candidates vying for a position in his Cabinet. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis called on Trump to participate in the debates, arguing that voters have the right to hear from all candidates.
Kathryn Watson, a politics reporter for CBS News Digital based in Washington, D.C., is the author of this article.