Trump's Tariff Endorsement Fuels Auto Layoffs

The article details increasing anxiety among autoworkers in the United States, particularly in the Midwest, stemming from job losses and plant closures. The United Auto Workers (UAW) is criticized for its perceived collusion with management, leading to concessions and a decline in worker power. Several factors contribute to the unease, including General Motors' closure of the Lordstown, Ohio, plant, which resulted in significant job losses and a domino effect on suppliers. The article highlights the impact of Trump's trade war policies, particularly tariffs, on the automotive industry, contributing to decreased production and potential further job cuts. The shift towards electric vehicles (EVs) also adds to the uncertainty, as EV production requires fewer workers, potentially leading to further automation and displacement. The article points to the deteriorating living standards and economic insecurity faced by many autoworkers, despite the auto industry's historical reputation for providing stable, well-paying jobs. It emphasizes the growing distrust of the UAW and calls for a new, independent organization of workers to fight for their interests and challenge the collaboration between the union and the corporations. The focus is on the need for a unified struggle against plant closures and wage cuts across national borders. find the original article here: https://www.wsws.org/en/articles/2025/05/05/uddm-m05.html