Pennsylvania steelworkers break with tradition, endorsing Trump for 2024 election over job security concerns and tariff support.
At a Glance
- Pennsylvania steelworkers from U.S. Steelworkers 1557 endorse Trump, citing his impact on the steel industry
- Trump’s tariffs on Chinese steel credited for saving jobs and reviving the industry in the Mon Valley
- “Steelworkers for Trump” presented Trump with a commemorative hard hat at a Pennsylvania rally
- Workers express mixed opinions about potential U.S. Steel takeover by Japan-based Nippon
- Trump plans to introduce a “Built in America” policy to boost manufacturing jobs if re-elected
Steelworkers’ Shift in Political Allegiance
In a significant departure from their historical Democratic support, Pennsylvania steelworkers are throwing their weight behind Donald Trump for the 2024 presidential election. This unexpected endorsement comes from members of U.S. Steelworkers 1557, who cite Trump’s decisive actions in protecting their jobs and revitalizing the steel industry as the primary reasons for their support.
The group “Steelworkers for Trump” made their endorsement official during a rally in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, where they presented the former president with a commemorative hard hat. This symbolic gesture underscores the strong connection Trump has forged with blue-collar workers in a traditionally Democratic stronghold.
Pennsylvania Steel workers endorse Donald Trump for president, says he "saved the steel industry with tariffs"
"You're my hero, and you're the greatest president ever!" pic.twitter.com/w7yjFySniZ
— The Post Millennial (@TPostMillennial) October 19, 2024
Tariffs: A Game Changer for the Steel Industry
At the heart of the steelworkers’ support for Trump are the tariffs he imposed on Chinese steel during his previous term. These workers credit these tariffs with saving their jobs and breathing new life into the struggling steel industry in the Mon Valley region.
“Historically, we’ve all been Democrats, A couple of us up here are third-generation steelworkers, and we had a trade case years ago that our ex-international president, Tom Conway, was fighting against the Chinese for illegal dumping, and when President Trump stepped in, and he imposed those tariffs on the Chinese, I firmly believe that he saved the steel industry, not only in our country, but the Mon Valley, where many of us have lived for close to 30 years.” stated Glenn Thomas
The impact of these tariffs has been so significant that it has prompted a reevaluation of political loyalties among workers who have traditionally supported Democratic candidates. This shift highlights the critical importance of job security and economic stability in shaping political allegiances.
Concerns Over U.S. Steel’s Potential Takeover
While the steelworkers express strong support for Trump’s policies, there is growing concern about the potential takeover of U.S. Steel by Japan-based Nippon. This proposed acquisition has sparked mixed reactions among the workforce, with some fearing job losses and changes to existing labor agreements.
“No. 1 is to protect the jobs in our valley, I’m a third-generation steelworker. I’ve been through those layoffs. It’s not fun. I’ve seen three mills shut down in the valley in the 80s. We have three mills left in the valley. I don’t want to see those shut down, and he made a firm commitment when I asked him with a handshake, ‘Mr. President, after the election, will you do what you can to keep our Mon Valley viable in the steel industry?’ He gripped my hand, and confirmed to me through that handshake that he says, ‘I will do that.'” said Andy Macey
Others, however, see potential benefits in Nippon’s investment plans, suggesting a complex landscape of opinions regarding the future of the industry. This uncertainty underscores the importance of strong leadership and clear policies to protect American manufacturing jobs.
Looking Ahead: Trump’s “Built in America” Policy
As part of his campaign platform, Trump has announced plans to introduce a “Built in America” policy if re-elected. This initiative aims to boost manufacturing jobs and further strengthen the domestic steel industry. For many steelworkers, this promise represents a continuation of the policies they believe saved their livelihoods during Trump’s previous term.
The steelworkers’ endorsement of Trump highlights the critical role that economic policies, particularly those affecting trade and manufacturing, play in shaping political allegiances. As the 2024 election approaches, the support of these Pennsylvania steelworkers could prove crucial in a key battleground state, potentially influencing the outcome of the presidential race.
