The automotive industry is playing a crucial role in the upcoming 2024 presidential election, particularly in Michigan.
Michigan has a significant number of jobs in the automotive sector and its electoral votes have historically been influential in determining the outcome of presidential races.
Both Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump are actively campaigning in the state, presenting different visions for the future of the automotive industry.
Key issues being closely monitored include:
While major automakers have not publicly endorsed either candidate, industry insiders have expressed their concerns and expectations regarding the potential outcomes of the election.
A Harris victory is expected to continue the policies of the Biden administration with some adjustments, while a Trump reelection could signal a return to more combative policies.
The future of electric vehicles is a contentious topic, with Trump opposing them and Harris historically supporting EV initiatives.
Automakers are concerned about upcoming regulations for the 2026 model year, which require a substantial percentage of vehicles to be zero-emission.
Trade policies and tariffs are also central to the candidates' platforms, with Trump aiming to protect American automotive production through increased tariffs, while Harris has criticized these proposals.
Labor relations are another critical area of concern, with a Harris victory potentially empowering organized labor and a Trump administration taking a more adversarial stance toward labor unions.
The outcome of the election will have significant implications for trade, labor, and environmental policies in the automotive industry.