- Michigan autoworkers are divided over Trump’s tariff strategy, with some fearing economic instability.
- Small business owners in Flint worry about rising costs and supply chain disruptions.
- Trump’s tariffs aim to revive U.S. industry but could lead to higher prices for everyday goods.
- Union leaders and workers express concerns about layoffs and economic uncertainty.
- The debate centers on whether the short-term pain of tariffs will lead to long-term gains.
Michigan Autoworkers Express Concerns Over Trump’s Tariff Strategy
The General Motors Flint Assembly plant, a sprawling 5 million-square-foot facility in mid-Michigan, stands as a testament to the American auto industry’s resilience. Despite decades of industrial decline in Flint, a blue-collar city of about 80,000, the plant continues to produce the Silverado truck, GM’s most popular product. Flint Assembly remains an economic cornerstone in a region filled with working-class swing voters who helped propel Donald Trump to his second term. Trump’s promise of an industrial revival resonated here, but his tariff strategy has sparked mixed reactions among autoworkers, small business owners, and residents.
Mixed Reactions to Tariffs
Trump’s tariffs, aimed at reviving U.S. manufacturing, have kicked into high gear recently. While some supporters believe the tariffs will ultimately benefit the economy, many in Flint are wary of the potential fallout. Chad Fabbro, financial secretary of United Auto Workers (UAW) Local 538 in Flint, criticized Trump’s approach, stating, “Trump is playing poker, but he’s playing poker with people’s lives at this point.” Fabbro noted that while onshoring industry is a good idea if well-planned, an abrupt, full-scale tariff war could harm middle America.
Economic Impact on Small Businesses
Small business owners in Flint are particularly concerned about the tariffs’ impact. Rebekah Hills, co-owner of Hills’ Cheese, imports about half of her products from countries like the Netherlands, France, and England. Under Trump’s latest plan, the cost of these products would increase by at least 10%. “It really sucks because it’s small businesses that suffer the most,” Hills said. Restaurateur Tony Vu echoed these concerns, noting that supply chain disruptions could be a “death blow” for businesses operating on thin margins.
Union Divided Over Tariffs
The UAW, representing thousands of autoworkers, is also divided on the issue. While UAW President Shawn Fain supports tariffs, many rank-and-file members, like those at Flint Assembly, view them as “bullshit.” Fabbro emphasized that middle-income families could become “collateral damage” in a tariff war, with layoffs and higher prices for everyday goods like clothing, electronics, and groceries. Some estimates suggest the tariffs could cost the average U.S. household $3,800 annually.
Political and Economic Gamble
Trump’s supporters argue that the short-term pain of tariffs will be worth the long-term benefits of a restructured global economy. Brian Pannebecker, a retired Ford employee and founder of Auto Workers for Trump, believes the tariffs will eventually lead to a stronger U.S. manufacturing sector. “It’s going to cause a little short-term pain, but we’re going to have to endure it for six months or a year, however long it takes,” Pannebecker said. However, critics like U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell caution that tariffs must be implemented carefully to avoid economic chaos.
Uncertain Future for Flint
As the tariff debate continues, the future of Flint remains uncertain. While some residents, like retiree Alan Jackson, support Trump’s stance against foreign competition, others fear the economic consequences. The Flint farmers’ market, a local economic hub, relies heavily on imports, and restaurateurs like Tony Vu worry about supply chain shortages. “It seems like deja vu, but with no end in sight,” Vu said. With the next elections 19 months away, the political and economic impact of Trump’s tariffs remains a contentious issue in Michigan and beyond.