President Trump’s new 25% tariffs on foreign-made cars and parts are a bold move to bring back American manufacturing jobs. Ohio Senator Bernie Moreno strongly supports these tariffs, saying they’ll revive factories in the Midwest and protect national security. The plan targets cars made in Mexico, Canada, and other countries, forcing companies to build more vehicles in the U.S.
For decades, bad trade deals like NAFTA sent auto jobs overseas. Factories in Ohio and Michigan closed while foreign factories boomed. Sen. Moreno says the tariffs will reverse this. He points to empty plants in Ohio that could reopen, putting thousands back to work. “If you sell cars here, make them here,” he argues.
Sen. Moreno claims the tariffs aren’t just about cars. They’re a tool to pressure Mexico and Canada to crack down on drug cartels and border crossers. Fentanyl pouring over the border kills thousands of Americans yearly. “Short-term pain for long-term security,” he says, urging patience as the policy takes effect.
The United Auto Workers union backs Trump’s tariffs, calling past trade policies “disastrous.” Moreno highlights their support, noting Ohio’s 84,000 auto jobs depend on strong protections. Restoring manufacturing, he says, means good wages for blue-collar families instead of sending profits overseas.
Critics warn car prices will jump. A $24,000 Hyundai could cost $28,500. Moreno admits costs will rise but claims wages will rise faster. “If prices go up 2% but paychecks go up 6%, you’re winning,” he says. Factories reopening mean overtime and bonuses for workers.
Some Republicans and mayors worry tariffs will hurt farmers and parts suppliers. Moreno dismisses them, saying previous leaders “gutted” communities by letting factories leave. He accuses China and Europe of cheating trade rules while blocking U.S. cars. “We’re done being suckers,” he says.
Ford and GM already build most trucks in the U.S., avoiding tariffs. Companies like Honda and Toyota now face pressure to shift production from Mexico. Moreno predicts a “manufacturing boom” as foreign brands rush to open Ohio plants. Old factories will retool, cutting reliance on China.
Moreno slams Biden for ignoring auto workers and pushing electric cars nobody wants. He praises Trump for backing gas-powered vehicles and skilled labor. “Democrats forgot real Americans,” he says. The tariffs undo Biden’s “weakness” and put Ohio first.
For Sen. Moreno, this is about more than cars. It’s about reviving pride in U.S. manufacturing and crushing foreign rivals who cheat. “Trump gets it,” he says. With tariffs, Ohio will lead a new industrial revolution, proving America still builds the best.
