Staff Reports
Former President Donald Trump took a bold stand against John Deere, a company that has seemingly embraced the trend of manufacturing beyond the American border. At a recent gathering in Smithton, Pennsylvania, Trump stood before a couple of John Deere tractors and laid down the law for the agricultural giant. This was no mere photo op; it was a clear warning to John Deere and any company that might think about turning their back on American workers.
Trump’s comments came during a discussion hosted by the Protecting America Initiative, where he made it abundantly clear that if John Deere wanted to chase cheaper labor in Mexico after netting a staggering $10 billion from American farmers, they would face serious consequences. Trump articulated a vision where American manufacturing is prioritized, eschewing the trend of outsourcing for the allure of cheaper workforces elsewhere.
He was adamant about his plans for a potential 200 percent tariff on products made in Mexico, sending a strong message that companies could either choose to support American workers or face a financial hit that would make their Mexican operations financially untenable. It was a move designed to resonate with the backbone of America—the farmers and workers who keep this nation running.
Trump Calls Out John Deere in Front of Crowd of Farmers via @WestJournalism https://t.co/uIBebCby09
— Richard Lemorie (@RLemorie) September 25, 2024
Trump pointed out that the consequences of shifting production could lead to a steep decline in quality as companies opt for foreign labor and subpar products. His take echoed the fears that many have about the slow death of American manufacturing, which Trump believes has only just begun, predicting more plant closures if companies continue down this path.
As he wrapped up his remarks, Trump made it clear that any company willing to invest back into America, particularly in regions like Michigan and South Carolina, would be welcomed with open arms and no tariffs. The message was clear: ditching American workers might bring short-term gains but would ultimately be a disaster for companies like John Deere, their workers, and the very fabric of American industry.
If Trump secures another term in office, it could pave the way for a revival in American manufacturing, compelling companies to choose loyalty to their home country over the fleeting satisfaction of cheap labor. The stakes are high, and the countdown to see whether corporations will heed this call to patriotism or continue their quest for the lowest bidder has officially begun.
