Dearborn, Michigan, January 15, 2026
The United Auto Workers (UAW) union has rallied in support of T.J. Sabula, a Ford employee suspended after confronting President Trump during a visit to Dearborn. Sabula allegedly called the president a ‘pedophile protector,’ referencing the Epstein case. Following his suspension, the UAW condemned the action, advocating for free speech rights. A GoFundMe campaign in Sabula’s support has raised over $500,000, demonstrating strong community backing in the wake of the incident, which raises important discussions about workers’ rights and free expression.
Dearborn, Michigan – UAW Supports Suspended Ford Worker Over Comments to President Trump
Dearborn, Michigan – The United Auto Workers (UAW) union has expressed strong support for a Ford Motor Company employee suspended after an exchange with President Donald Trump during a factory visit in Dearborn. The worker, identified as T.J. Sabula, was suspended without pay following the incident.
Incident Details
On January 13, 2026, during President Trump’s visit to the Ford Rouge Complex in Dearborn, Sabula reportedly shouted “pedophile protector” at the president. This remark appears to reference the administration’s handling of the Jeffrey Epstein case. In response, President Trump was seen giving Sabula the middle finger and mouthing an obscenity, as captured in a video posted online. Ford Motor Company confirmed Sabula’s suspension but did not provide further details. A Ford spokesperson stated that the company does not condone inappropriate behavior within its facilities and has processes in place to address such incidents.
UAW’s Response
The UAW has condemned the suspension, emphasizing the worker’s right to free speech. The union is committed to ensuring that Sabula receives full protection under the negotiated contract, thereby safeguarding his job and rights as a union member. They also highlighted that workers should not be subjected to vulgar language or behavior by anyone, including the President of the United States.
Community Support
Following the suspension, a GoFundMe campaign was launched in support of Sabula. As of January 14, 2026, the campaign has raised over $500,000, reflecting significant community backing for the suspended worker.
Background Context
The incident occurred during President Trump’s visit to the Dearborn Truck Plant, where he was scheduled to deliver remarks to the Detroit Economic Club. The exchange between Sabula and Trump has sparked discussions about free speech rights and the treatment of workers within corporate environments.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Date | January 13, 2026 |
| Location | Dearborn, Michigan |
| Involved Parties | T.J. Sabula (Ford worker), President Donald Trump |
| UAW’s Response | Condemned suspension, pledged support for Sabula’s free speech rights |
| Community Support | GoFundMe campaign raised over $500,000 as of January 14, 2026 |
FAQ
Who is T.J. Sabula?
T.J. Sabula is a 40-year-old line worker at Ford’s Dearborn Truck Plant in Michigan. He was suspended without pay after an exchange with President Donald Trump during a factory visit on January 13, 2026.
What did Sabula say to President Trump?
During President Trump’s visit to the Dearborn Truck Plant, Sabula reportedly shouted “pedophile protector” at the president, referencing the administration’s handling of the Jeffrey Epstein case.
How did President Trump respond?
In response to Sabula’s remark, President Trump was seen giving Sabula the middle finger and mouthing an obscenity, as captured in a video posted online.
What is the UAW’s stance on the incident?
The UAW has condemned the suspension, emphasizing the worker’s right to free speech. They have pledged to ensure Sabula receives full protection under the negotiated contract, safeguarding his job and rights as a union member.
Has the community supported Sabula?
Yes, following the suspension, a GoFundMe campaign was launched in support of Sabula. As of January 14, 2026, the campaign has raised over $500,000, reflecting significant community backing for the suspended worker.
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