Overview
- Video published by TMZ shows the Dearborn factory worker shouting at President Trump, who appeared to respond with a middle finger and a profane phrase during the Jan. 13 tour.
- Ford confirmed the incident and said it enforces workplace respect policies, and the worker was suspended as the company followed its personnel process.
- The UAW said the employee is a union member and pledged to ensure his contractual protections are enforced, criticizing vulgar behavior toward workers.
- Online fundraisers created for the suspended worker drew large sums, with one campaign reported at more than $480,000 by Friday.
- The White House defended the president’s reaction and commentators tied the moment to public frustration over the partial, delayed release of Epstein-related records after last year’s transparency law.