Former President Trump issued a stern warning to John Deere on Monday, threatening a 200% tariff on the company’s products if it moves parts of its manufacturing operations to Mexico, according to a new report from Bloomberg. This announcement follows John Deere’s recent layoffs in the U.S. and its reported plans to shift certain manufacturing jobs abroad by 2026. Trump, known for his aggressive stance on tariffs, reiterated his commitment to using them as leverage to keep jobs within the U.S., signaling that such economic measures would be a central part of his strategy if he wins the presidency again.
Key Facts:
– Trump threatened a 200% tariff on John Deere’s products if they proceed with plans to move manufacturing to Mexico.
– John Deere is laying off around 600 workers in Illinois and Iowa as part of a business restructuring.
– The company plans to shift manufacturing of skid steer loaders and compact track loaders to Mexico by 2026.
– Trump argued that tariffs are a key solution to keep American jobs and manufacturing within the U.S.
– Trump has stated he can impose tariffs without congressional approval if needed.
The Rest of The Story:
During an event in Pennsylvania with farmers, Donald Trump used the backdrop of John Deere tractors to launch his latest attack on companies shifting jobs overseas. Citing the company’s recent announcement to move some of its manufacturing operations to Mexico, Trump said, “If you do that, we’re putting a 200 percent tariff on everything you want to sell into the United States.” He suggested that the company could reverse its decision, but promised harsh penalties if it didn’t.
John Deere’s plans to relocate parts of its manufacturing operations come amidst a broader restructuring effort.
Trump isn’t messing around with protecting American jobs…
Today he went after John Deere when he noticed their tractors behind him:
He said if they move their manufacturing to Mexico, “we’re putting a 200% tariff on everything you sell into the US.”pic.twitter.com/TIxFlHwjY9
— Tim Young (@TimRunsHisMouth) September 23, 2024
Fox Business reported in June that the company was laying off 600 workers from plants in Illinois and Iowa. These layoffs are part of John Deere’s long-term plan to transfer production of certain equipment, including skid steer loaders and compact track loaders, to Mexico by 2026.
Trump’s aggressive use of tariffs has been a hallmark of his economic vision, both in his first term and now as he campaigns for a second.
He has frequently touted tariffs as a way to protect American jobs and manufacturing, while critics, especially economists on the left, argue that such policies would lead to higher inflation as companies pass increased costs onto consumers. In response to these concerns, Trump said, “I don’t need Congress,” suggesting he would act unilaterally to impose tariffs if necessary.
Commentary:
Trump’s stance on tariffs, particularly in this case with John Deere, is a clear attempt to hold companies accountable for outsourcing jobs at the expense of American workers.
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The practice of moving manufacturing to cheaper locations, while increasing profits for corporations, has devastating effects on local economies and hardworking Americans who lose their livelihoods.
If U.S. companies like John Deere want to benefit from access to the American market, they should be required to keep their operations at home. This would not only protect jobs but also prevent the erosion of America’s manufacturing base.
By using tariffs as leverage, Trump ensures that companies face real consequences for betraying American workers. It’s a fair expectation for businesses to prioritize the interests of the country that enabled their success, and Trump’s proposed tariffs would force them to reconsider the true cost of outsourcing.
The Bottom Line:
Trump’s latest threat to impose a 200% tariff on John Deere products is part of his broader strategy to protect American jobs by discouraging outsourcing.
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While the company’s plans to shift some manufacturing to Mexico have yet to be finalized, Trump is making it clear that he will aggressively use tariffs to keep U.S. companies from moving jobs abroad.
With manufacturing jobs at stake, his stance resonates strongly with workers and voters who feel left behind by globalization and corporate offshoring.
