Holland Reporter

Matt Hall, State Representative of Michigan, said that President Trump's tariffs contributed to stabilizing car prices and boosting auto jobs, leading to a historic rebound for Michigan's auto sector. His remarks were made on the social media platform X.

"Trump was right—and Michigan proves it," said Hall, State Representative from Michigan. "The haters and so-called experts warned that tariffs would send car prices through the roof, kill auto jobs, and wreck the industry. Instead? Car prices are flat, jobs are up, and Michigan's auto sector is making the comeback of the century. Thank you, President Donald J. Trump!"

President Trump's tariffs on steel, aluminum, and auto parts have reportedly increased costs for Michigan’s auto manufacturers. This has led to higher car prices and affected employment and investment in the state's key industry. While these tariffs were intended to protect U.S. jobs, they have caused automakers to adjust production strategies and sparked ongoing debate about their broader economic impact, according to The Detroit News.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and Kelley Blue Book indicate that the average price of a new car in Michigan rose by approximately 35% from 2018 to 2024, surpassing national growth rates. Meanwhile, auto manufacturing jobs in the state increased from 167,000 in 2018 to roughly 173,000 in 2024, showing only modest recovery from pandemic-era lows.

Automotive News reports that Michigan’s auto sector experienced a larger rise in car prices and slower job growth compared to neighboring states Ohio and Indiana since 2018. Ohio saw new car prices rise by about 29%, while Indiana's auto manufacturing jobs increased by 7%. In contrast, Michigan saw only about a 4% growth in sector jobs during the same period.

Hall is a Republican representing Michigan’s 42nd District and currently serves as House Minority Leader. He is recognized for his focus on economic development, regulatory reform, and manufacturing policy with an emphasis on supporting Michigan’s auto industry and advanced manufacturing, as noted by Ballotpedia.