President Trump’s new tariffs on foreign auto imports are drawing praise from a surprising voice—UAW President Shawn Fain, who’s been one of Trump’s loudest critics. Despite deep political differences, Fain says the tariffs may finally rein in offshoring and corporate greed.
Key Facts:
- UAW President Shawn Fain said he supports Trump’s 25% tariffs on foreign-made cars and parts.
- Fain made the comments during a speech at Wayne State University in Detroit.
- Trump announced the tariffs last week, targeting companies that produce vehicles outside the U.S., including Chevrolet.
- Fain said Democrats have failed to act on trade and blamed “corporate greed” for offshoring jobs.
- Trump’s team claims these tariffs will spur job growth and onshoring without causing inflation.
The Rest of The Story:
UAW President Shawn Fain, who previously called Trump a “scab” and wore anti-Trump clothing at political rallies, is now siding with the former president on a key economic policy.
At a recent appearance in Detroit, Fain said he disagrees with Trump on nearly everything—except tariffs.
Fain criticized Democrats for years of inaction on offshoring and applauded Trump for eliminating what he called “bad trade deals” like NAFTA.
He argued that automakers don’t need to raise prices in response to the tariffs, accusing them of using COVID-era disruptions to raise prices by up to 40% for no reason other than profit.
White House spokesman Kush Desai said Trump’s policy is part of a larger plan to bring back manufacturing jobs and support blue-collar workers.
He noted that automakers like Stellantis and Hyundai have already committed billions to U.S. operations under Trump’s economic agenda.
United Auto Workers President Shawn Fain: "I've had companies tell us point blank that they're going to have to bring product back here if those tariffs are implemented." pic.twitter.com/RAR8ZrC5Fr
— Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) March 30, 2025
Commentary:
It’s encouraging to see someone like Shawn Fain put politics aside and speak honestly about what’s right for American workers.
While Fain has been critical of Trump in the past, even he can’t ignore the benefits of a tough trade policy that protects U.S. jobs and brings manufacturing back home.
Tariffs are not about punishing other countries—they’re about restoring fairness.
For too long, American companies have had incentives to move jobs overseas, chasing cheap labor while hollowing out the middle class here at home.
United Auto Workers President Shawn Fain, who campaigned for Democrats in 2024, went on ABC to defend Trump's tariffs:
"We're in a triage situation. Tariffs are an attempt to stop the bleeding from the hemorrhaging of jobs in America for the last 33 years … Name me one… pic.twitter.com/9anc0pxU7k
— Scott Morefield (@SKMorefield) March 9, 2025
If Trump’s tariffs can change that calculus, even in part, it’s a step in the right direction.
There’s no doubt this won’t be painless.
Companies will complain.
Prices may shift.
But if it pushes automakers to invest in American workers and reopen shuttered factories, it’s worth it.
As Fain said, companies have choices.
They don’t need to offshore to be profitable—they just need to be held accountable.
We trust that Trump’s instincts on trade will lead to stronger domestic production and less reliance on foreign supply chains.
The long-term payoff could be massive if it means more jobs, more tax revenue, and more security for American families.
Other countries may eventually agree to fairer terms to avoid the tariffs altogether.
The Bottom Line:
Trump’s auto tariffs are creating unlikely alliances and forcing a long-overdue conversation on trade and offshoring.
Even his critics are beginning to recognize the potential for positive change.
While there may be short-term challenges, these policies could revitalize American manufacturing and restore balance in global trade.
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