Former President Trump’s Warning: Loss of 2024 Election Could Result in Disaster for US Auto Industry and Country
During a campaign rally in Vandalia, Ohio on Saturday, former President Donald Trump issued a stark warning about the potential consequences of losing the 2024 presidential election. He stated that if he was not re-elected, it would be detrimental for the US auto industry and the country as a whole, stating that there would be a “bloodbath” in these areas.
Promising Protective Tariffs on Imported Cars
Trump’s comment came during a larger discussion about the auto industry, unions, and the transition to electric vehicles. He reiterated his long-standing position on trade and tariffs, arguing that domestic auto manufacturing would be safeguarded only if he is elected by promising a “100% tariff” on cars imported from outside the US.
Urging Urgency for November Elections
The former president emphasized the significance of the upcoming November elections, stating that their outcome could have severe consequences for the country. He told the crowd that if he did not win, “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.”
Targeting Auto Industry, Unions, and EV Manufacturing in Rust Belt States
Throughout his speech, Trump continued to appeal to voters in Rust Belt states by criticizing trade policies and advocating for tariffs on electric vehicles manufactured outside the US. He previously expressed his intention to impose a 50% tariff on cars made in Chinese plants in Mexico.
Biden Campaign Responds to “Bloodbath” Comment
President Joe Biden’s campaign reacted to Trump’s use of the term “bloodbath,” suggesting that the former president wanted another January 6. Biden campaign spokesperson James Singer stated, “This is who Donald Trump is: a loser who gets beat by over 7 million votes and then instead of appealing to a wider mainstream audience doubles down on his threats of political violence.”
Trump’s Perspective: Economic Consequences for the Auto Industry and Autoworkers
The Trump campaign retorted that Biden’s policies would bring economic devastation for the auto industry and autoworkers. Trump campaign spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt emphasized, “Biden’s policies will create an economic bloodbath for the auto industry and autoworkers.”
Trump’s Speech: Bashing Fani Willis, Criticizing Biden, and Repeating Unfounded Election Claims
Trump’s rally speech included bashing Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis, criticisms of Biden on immigration and the economy, and unfounded allegations that the 2020 election was stolen due to widespread voter fraud. He also reiterated his promise to free people charged with crimes related to the January 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol.
Dehumanizing Language Towards Criminals and Immigrants
During his speech, Trump also used dehumanizing language to describe criminals and immigrants. He characterized undocumented immigrants who commit crimes as “animals” and went on to state that he does not view those imprisoned for violent crimes, such as members of MS-13 gangs, as “people.”
Immigration and Border Campaign Wedge Issues
Trump has made it clear that he intends to make immigration and border issues campaign wedges. He has proposed expansions of his first administration’s hardline immigration policies, including mass detentions and deportations.
Historical Precedence: Dehumanizing Language Used by Adolf Hitler
The former president’s use of dehumanizing language towards migrants echoes words used by Adolf Hitler. Trump has repeatedly referred to migrants as “poisoning the blood of our country,” among other derogatory terms.