Auto Workers Brace for Job Impact Amid Political Debate on EV Investments

United Auto Workers President Shawn Fain warns of potential job loss if Donald Trump, with running mate JD Vance, wins the election and repeals electric vehicle investments. Democrats counter, citing risks to thousands of jobs. Vice President Kamala Harris backs EV expansion with UAW's endorsement.

In a statement on Thursday, President of the United Auto Workers, Shawn Fain, raised alarms over potential job losses should former President Donald Trump win the upcoming election and repeal current investments in electric vehicles (EVs). Fain, vocal in his support for Democratic nominee Vice President Kamala Harris, highlighted the pivotal role of EV investments in sustaining hundreds of thousands of jobs across the U.S.

The contentious debate heated up when Trump's running mate, Senator JD Vance of Ohio, hesitated over maintaining a $500 million investment crucial for converting General Motors' Cadillac plant into an EV facility. Fain criticized Vance's vague statements, emphasizing the broader implications for supply chain jobs nationwide.

In contrast, Vance defended his position, arguing that an EV mandate could jeopardize over 117,000 auto jobs. While Kamala Harris assured no plans for such a mandate, she emphasized consumer choice and competitive market growth. This political clash intensifies as Trump considers removing an EV tax credit, a move the Biden administration previously expanded to boost the sector.

(With inputs from agencies.)