A coalition of more than 70 Democratic House members wrote to President Trump urging a blanket ban on Chinese carmakers building vehicles in the United States. Led by Rep. Debbie Dingell, the letter warned that any easing of import barriers would threaten U.S. manufacturing, jobs and national security. Lawmakers framed the request as a non‑negotiable priority for American auto competitiveness.

Chinese automakers have long been kept out of the U.S. market by steep tariffs and a prohibition on Chinese‑origin connected‑vehicle software. Advances in electric‑vehicle technology, showcased at events like the Beijing Auto Show, have heightened concerns that these firms could soon compete directly with legacy brands. The timing of the letter coincides with President Trump’s upcoming summit with Xi Jinping as well as geopolitical rivalry.

If Congress succeeds, Chinese automakers would face a permanent prohibition on U.S. production, forcing them to rely on exports subject to existing 25% tariffs. That barrier could preserve domestic assembly lines but also limit consumer choice and keep prices high for electric models. The push reflects growing bipartisan anxiety over technology transfer and supply‑chain control for U.S. workers and suppliers.