GM CEO Backs Trump Auto Tariffs to Aid US Manufacturing

General Motors CEO Mary Barra has publicly supported President Donald Trump's automotive tariffs, arguing they help level the playing field for U.S. automakers against unfair foreign government subsidies and trade barriers. Barra highlighted that American car manufacturers have long faced disadvantages globally due to tariffs and non-tariff barriers, and sees tariffs as a tool to create a fairer competitive environment. GM is responding to the tariffs by increasing its U.S.-based manufacturing capacity, including an $888 million investment in a New York propulsion plant for a next-generation V-8 engine, and has moved over 25% of its supply chain to the U.S. Barra also noted improved relations with the Trump administration and praised tariff-free imports from Canada and Mexico under the free-trade agreement. Despite potential costs of up to $5 billion from tariffs, GM's U.S. EV sales have grown significantly, capturing over 14% of new EV sales in April 2025. Meanwhile, President Trump continues to defend his tariff strategy as a negotiation tactic aimed at protecting U.S. interests and stimulating economic growth.