Former President Donald Trump warned Saturday that if he were to lose the 2024 election, it would be a “bloodbath” for the US auto industry and the country.
The remark came as Trump promised a “100% tariff” on cars made outside the US, arguing that domestic auto manufacturing would be protected only if he is elected.
“We’re going to put a 100% tariff on every single car that comes across the line, and you’re not going to be able to sell those guys if I get elected,” Trump said during a rally in Vandalia, Ohio. “Now, if I don’t get elected, it’s going to be a bloodbath for the whole – that’s gonna be the least of it. It’s going to be a bloodbath for the country. That’ll be the least of it.”
The comment came in the midst of an extended riff on the auto industry, unions, the transition to electric vehicles and auto plants in Mexico. Trump has sought to woo autoworkers and appeal to voters in Rust Belt states by hammering on trade, tariffs and EV manufacturing. Trump told CNBC this month that he would place a 50% tariff on cars made in Chinese plants in Mexico.
The former president later stressed to the crowd his belief in the urgency of the November election. “If this election isn’t won, I’m not sure that you’ll ever have another election in this country.”
Saturday’s rally was held in support of businessman Bernie Moreno, Trump’s preferred candidate in the state’s Republican Senate primary Tuesday. It was a freewheeling speech, which he blamed on being unable to use the teleprompter due to strong winds.
“I can’t read this damn teleprompter,” Trump said. “This sucker is moving. Like reading a moving flag at a 35-mph wind.”
President Joe Biden’s campaign latched on to Trump’s use of the word…
Read the full article here
