In a shocking move that has ignited political firestorms and economic debates across the country, Ford Motor Company announced today that it will shift a significant portion of its production outside the United States in response to the latest round of tariffs imposed by the U.S. government.

The announcement came just days after the Biden administration, under mounting pressure from domestic manufacturers and unions, implemented new tariffs targeting automotive imports and parts from countries like China and Mexico—aimed at boosting American manufacturing and protecting jobs.

But instead of expanding operations at home, Ford cited the tariffs as a “crippling financial burden” and confirmed plans to move manufacturing of several vehicle lines—including the popular Ford Escape and Bronco Sport—to its existing facilities in Mexico and Vietnam by early 2026.

“We deeply value our American workforce, but we must remain globally competitive,” said Ford CEO Jim Farley in a press briefing. “These tariffs have made domestic production of key models unsustainable under current conditions.”

Trump Reacts With Fury

The decision has provoked a furious response from former President Donald Trump, who took to Truth Social within hours of the announcement to unleash a blistering tirade:

“FORD IS ABANDONING AMERICA!!! This would NEVER have happened under my watch. I SAVED THE AUTO INDUSTRY — now Biden is DESTROYING IT with his STUPID TARIFFS!” Trump wrote. “If Ford wants to leave, maybe we stop buying Ford!!!”

The former president, currently the leading Republican candidate for the 2024 election (pending recounts in several key states), has long positioned himself as the champion of American manufacturing. In 2018, under his administration, Ford canceled plans for a small car factory in Mexico after public pressure and criticism from Trump himself.

Economic Fallout or Smart Strategy?

Industry analysts say Ford’s move is a calculated response to a volatile global trade environment, not a political statement.

“This is not about patriotism—this is about survival,” said Marianne Lopez, senior auto industry analyst at J.D. Power. “Ford is trying to protect its margins while competing with Tesla, Toyota, and Chinese EV startups that aren’t facing the same domestic cost burdens.”

Still, the political optics are devastating for the current administration, especially in Michigan, Ohio, and Pennsylvania—states crucial to any presidential win.

Union Response and Worker Backlash

UAW President Shawn Fain called Ford’s decision “a betrayal,” vowing to fight back.

“This is corporate greed, plain and simple. American taxpayers bailed out Ford when they needed help. Now they’re turning their backs on American workers,” Fain said.

Meanwhile, workers at Ford’s Louisville Assembly Plant and Flat Rock facilities expressed anger and fear about job security. “We built this company. Now they’re outsourcing our future,” one worker told local media under anonymity.

What Comes Next?

The Biden administration has not issued an official statement, but sources inside the White House say emergency meetings are underway with key automakers and union leaders. There is growing pressure to either modify the tariffs or offer incentives to keep manufacturing in the U.S.

As the 2024 presidential election remains unresolved and the economy teeters on uncertainty, Ford’s decision could become a defining moment in America’s industrial future—and a political weapon wielded by both sides.