U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris on Friday delivered a passionate speech in Michigan, the heart of the U.S. auto industry, vowing to support workers that she claims Donald Trump has neglected. Addressing thousands of energized supporters, Harris highlighted the Biden administration’s record of revitalizing American manufacturing, especially in the auto sector, and emphasized its commitment to unionized labor.
“We’ve brought manufacturing back to America,” Harris declared, referencing new factories in Michigan, a battleground state central to the upcoming presidential election. She underscored the importance of a strong middle class, deeply tied to the success of American manufacturing.
Harris sharply criticized Trump, accusing him of undermining the auto industry by opposing organized labor and threatening to pull support for electric vehicle (EV) production. She framed EVs as essential for the future of the industry, both to remain globally competitive and to combat climate change.
“Contrary to what my opponent suggests, I won’t tell you what car to drive,” Harris said. “But I will invest in communities like Flint, retool factories, and create good-paying union jobs.”
She also attacked Trump for failing to support EV innovation during his presidency, allowing China to gain a competitive edge. “When it came to building the cars of the future, Donald Trump sat on the sidelines,” Harris charged.
The vice president’s speech also took aim at Republican vice presidential nominee JD Vance, who recently criticized EV investments, claiming they would benefit China over American workers. Harris dismissed these arguments, aligning herself with Michigan Democrats and union leaders, who warn that abandoning EV support could cost the state thousands of jobs.
“Michigan, we fought together for those jobs, and you deserve a president who won’t put them at risk,” Harris concluded.
With both campaigns frequently visiting Michigan, polling shows a close race, though Harris currently holds a slight lead. Trump’s 2016 victory in Michigan and his growing support among working-class voters remain significant factors in the race. As Harris seeks to win over undecided voters, her campaign continues to stress Trump’s support for policies that favor the wealthy over the working class, calling in prominent allies like UAW President Shawn Fain and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer to amplify her message.
