Donald Trump says "car companies are doing better" on tariffs

President Donald Trump, speaking this week at a General Motors rally in Milford, Michigan, claimed that automakers are thriving like never before as a result of his tariffs. His remarks came ahead of the state’s primary election. According to the Associated Press, the tariffs have cost Michigan and national businesses billions of dollars and helped fuel persistent inflation, with many Americans saying the import taxes raised prices and hurt consumer confidence. Some auto companies have announced future plans to increase U.S. production, but those benefits have not yet appeared. Michigan—a battleground state Trump won in 2016 and 2024—holds its primary on Tuesday. Even loyal supporters acknowledged short-term economic pain while expressing hope for long-term gains.