Trump Highlights Support for Michigan Autoworkers

On Thursday, President Donald Trump addressed Michigan’s autoworkers during a “Big, Beautiful Event” at the White House. His speech emphasized a new initiative aimed at supporting American manufacturing and tax benefits for car owners.

Among the group behind Trump was James Benson, a third-generation autoworker from Belleville, Michigan, who has dedicated 26 years to Ford Motor Company. Trump used Benson as an example, mentioning the numerous manufacturing plants across the U.S.

“If there are plants in this country, you’re going to make a lot of money,” Trump stated, adding that Benson was a lifelong Democrat until 2017 when he recognized the advantages of recent tax law changes.

Trump elaborated on a proposed plan designed to benefit car buyers. He noted that a new deduction proposal is available, which allows for up to $10,000 off interest on eligible passenger vehicle loans—though this benefit applies solely to cars manufactured in the U.S. “If it was made elsewhere, we don’t care,” he remarked.

The government’s “Big, Beautiful Building” plan would introduce this car loan deduction, effective for the tax years 2025-2028. However, Trump cautioned that those with an adjusted gross income over $100,000 would not qualify for the deduction.

Included in this proposal are various types of vehicles such as cars, trucks, SUVs, vans, and motorcycles made for public use.

Despite advocating for the bill, Trump faces some skepticism from Republican senators concerned about potential debt consequences. He stressed during his speech that tax benefits are restricted to vehicles produced in the United States.

“Remember that, James. We’re going to keep those Michigan auto plants rolling,” he concluded, reinforcing his commitment to the American auto industry.