In an unexpected move, President Donald Trump, the frontrunner for the 2024 Republican nomination, has decided to skip the upcoming Republican primary debate. Rather than appearing alongside his contenders, Trump plans to hold a rally in Detroit and address the striking UAW autoworkers.
Set to take place on September 27, the same day as the GOP primary debate at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in California, Trump's event will feature a primetime speech that aims to resonate not only with the autoworkers but also with 500 plumbers, pipe-fitters, and electricians in attendance, according to The New York Times.
While the possibility of Trump appearing at the picket line is being considered, logistical challenges related to security make it unlikely, according to one of Trump's advisors. Trump expressed his support for the United Autoworkers in a post on Truth Social, criticising the push towards all-electric cars, which he regards as a "SCAM."
He condemned President Joe Biden's policies and urged autoworkers to vote for him, promising to make them victorious and wealthy. Trump accused Biden of being involved in corrupt dealings with China and warned that under Democratic leadership, the autoworkers would face unemployment and financial hardship.
Meanwhile, the strike against Ford, General Motors, and Stellantis entered its fourth day on Monday. Approximately 13,000 United Auto Workers union members have refused to work until better benefits and wages are offered.
Notably, the union chose not to endorse Biden in the spring due to concerns about the administration's focus on electric vehicles. This decision by Trump to skip the debate follows a similar move during the first GOP debate in Milwaukee, where he opted to do an interview with Tucker Carlson instead.
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