Topline
Former President Donald Trump plans on traveling to Detroit to give a speech to union workers instead of attending the Republican primary debate, according to multiple reports, citing anonymous sources—seemingly an attempt to woo workers into voting for him amid a high-profile auto workers’ strike.
Former President Donald Trump speaks during the Pray Vote Stand Summit, Friday in Washington. (AP … [+]
Key Facts
Trump’s visit will reportedly include a prime-time speech to over 500 current and former union workers, including plumbers, pipe-fitters, electricians, as well as autoworkers, according to the New York Times.
The visit is reportedly scheduled for September 27, the same day that the Republican National Committee is hosting its second presidential primary debate at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum in Simi Valley, California.
The campaign is reportedly considering having Trump visit the picket line, though sources told the Times said that such an appearance would involve difficult logistics and is unlikely.
News Peg
On Friday, the United Auto Workers began a strike against General Motors, Ford and Stellantis, the big three automakers, at three different facilities until the company meets their demands or the two come to an agreement. The union is asking for a 46% wage increase, to end the industry’s tiered system of wages and benefits and a workweek reduction from 40 hours to 32 hours.
Key Background
The visit signals the Trump team’s desire to be seen by voters as unconcerned with his primary challengers. However, the Times reports that Trump is likely already focusing on a rematch with President Joe Biden. This visit also suggests Trump is making an attempt to appeal to labor and working Americans, with many analysts attributing Trump’s 2016 election victory over Hillary Clinton to his support among working class white Americans. Furthermore, that voting base is likely to play a key role in a general election between Trump and Biden, who calls himself the most pro-union president in history.
Tangent
This would be the second time this election cycle that Trump skipped a primary debate. Trump eschewed the first debate in late August and instead sat for an interview with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson, who has started a show on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Further Reading
Trump to Woo Striking Union Members in Detroit, Skipping 2nd G.O.P. Debate (New York Times)
