Mike Rogers Discusses Impact of Trump’s Tariffs on Michigan Economy

Mike Rogers, a former U.S. representative and the endorsed Republican Senate candidate in Michigan, shared his thoughts on SiriusXM regarding President Donald Trump’s tariffs. He firmly believes these tariffs are already yielding tangible results, particularly by revitalizing production opportunities in Michigan.

In an interview with Breitbart News’ Washington Director, Matthew Boyle, Rogers emphasized significant investments both in Michigan and across the country, which he credits to Trump’s trade policies benefiting manufacturers of all sizes.

Rogers pointed to General Motors’ recent commitment to invest $4 billion in Michigan as a major development. He noted that the return of production to the state is particularly significant, stating, “When that happens, all these little makers get more work, which is really good for a state like Michigan.”

He also mentioned Whirlpool’s announcement about resuming manufacturing in the U.S. and how American companies are increasingly looking to tap into overseas markets.

Reflecting on a conversation with a Michigan factory worker, Rogers shared how that individual was now on a second shift for the first time in 25 years. This worker attributed the job increase directly to Trump’s tariff policies, claiming that the car companies began sourcing domestically instead of relying on cheaper alternatives from China.

Rogers recounted, “He said, ‘Oh, it’s totally tariffs.’ When it was announced, the car company told me, ‘Hey, we love your product. We were trying to source this in China, but we can do your job.'” This, he argued, is precisely the outcome expected from such policies.

A separate discussion with another worker highlighted an increase in production shifts that had dwindled under President Biden’s administration. The worker noted that previously, during Trump’s first term, their factory operated on three shifts, but had condensed to one due to regulatory burdens. Recently, though, demand has surged again, bringing opportunities back for Michigan families, as companies must source locally.

Rogers and Boyle also touched on the topic of manufacturing American cars for European markets, especially post Trump’s trade agreement aimed at facilitating U.S. market access. Boyle mentioned his recent travel to Scotland, where he did not encounter any American-made cars, stressing the need for the U.S. to begin exporting more effectively to Europe.

Rogers responded, noting that current trade barriers make it challenging for American cars to compete in the UK and other European countries. He expressed the need for a balanced trade system that allows American vehicles to thrive abroad, particularly for states like Michigan.

He whimsically noted that adapting cars for European roads could be as simple as changing the steering wheel and gas pedal to the right side.