A Tariff Surprise! Will Trump's Auto Tariffs Crush the Rebellion?

The Emperor's New Decree!

The tremors in the Force are strong or perhaps it's just the disturbance caused by this… Trump fellow. He declares 25% tariffs on all vehicles not forged within the borders of these United States. A bold move one that could either restore order to the galaxy... I mean the economy or plunge it into chaos. This is not going to be easy. Perhaps I should Force Choke someone to get my point across...or several someones!

Detroit's Dark Hour

The so called "Detroit Three" tremble before my might… well before these tariffs. General Motors stock suffers while Ford and Stellantis merely flinch. But there is one who remains untouched by this fiscal disturbance: Tesla. It seems the Force is strong with this one or perhaps just their assembly plants. As the Deutsche Bank analysts say GM seems to be feeling the most 'pain' as they depend heavily on the Mexican facilities.

A Shield for Tesla!

Tesla shielded from the tariffs stands tall. It seems concentrating power in one location can be advantageous. A lesson the Empire learned long ago. However Ford the fools are somewhat exposed due to their imported engines. The Emperor I mean Trump has stated that any vehicle built within the US will be exempt from these tariffs. A simple solution yet one that will cause much disruption. The irony is not lost on me that Trump's decision could actually help Tesla a company not afraid to embrace the Dark Side I mean new technology!

USMCA: The Loophole!

Ah but there is a loophole. Those parts complying with the USMCA are temporarily spared pending further deliberation. The bureaucrats are scrambling trying to decipher the rules of this game. The Commerce Secretary must consult with Customs to determine how to apply these tariffs to non US content. Bureaucracy the ultimate weapon of stagnation. But with 20,000 parts going back and forth across borders this will be a bureaucratic nightmare and who knows where 50 to 120 countries will get involved.

The Union's Unholy Alliance!

The United Auto Workers cheer this decision. An alliance between the working class and…Trump? Unsettling. They demand the automakers bring back union jobs. Perhaps these tariffs are a pathway to many abilities some consider to be unnatural...for GM. If only they knew the power of the Dark Side... I mean automation!

A Price to Pay!

Analysts predict imported cars could rise by $5,000 to $15,000. Even cars made in the US could see a price hike of $3,000 to $8,000 if foreign parts are involved. The Emperor... I mean Trump granted a one month exemption to those following USMCA rules. This is a gamble one that could either strengthen the American auto industry or cripple it. Only time will tell if this was a masterstroke or a fatal error. For now I shall watch and wait and perhaps use the Force to influence the outcome... FOR THE EMPIRE!