Donald Trump claimed his “historic tariffs” sparked a revival of America’s industrial heartlands, addressing a flurry of blue‑collar workers at a General Motors facility in Milford, Michigan. He blasted previous administrations for letting globalist politicians and 25 incoming per cent levies on foreign cars and light trucks cripple the auto sector.

The president’s rhetoric comes amid a push to regain working‑class support ahead of the midterm elections, even as the average petrol price has shot up to $4.11 a gallon and 30‑year mortgage rates hit 6.58 per cent. A recent CBS‑YouGov poll shows a steep drop in his backing among white, non‑college voters.

Critics note that employment in motor vehicle and parts manufacturing fell 2.2 percent from June 2025 to June 2026, and economists from the American Enterprise Institute argue tariffs raise costs for both companies and workers. “No amount of podium speeches will change the fundamental economic reality,” said Michael Strain.

Supporters lauded the president’s efforts to bring jobs back, though some called for patience. The rally also saw off‑topic remarks and a heated moment with an auto worker, underscoring the polarised reception of Trump’s agenda.