Obama court Detroit’s auto industry
Barack Obama will renew his sales pitch to voters for the 2009 model Obama administration and Detroit automakers are among those, in his fourth visit to Michigan. Obama used Detroit’s foibles as a rallying cry for reform during the Democratic primary, making his critique a standard part of his stump speech. Obama has launched a charm crusade toward the industry that powers a key swing state, since clinching the nomination.
Obama’s visited assembly plants, meet with chief executives of General Motors and Ford and talked up the companies’ new technology. Obama was ready when automakers and suppliers began seeking funding for up to $50 billion in government loans in July. Michigan’s Democratic lawmakers, including Rep. John Dingell meet with Obama to give him their advice and while the UAW threw its support behind Obama touting his record on trade and health care.
Obama had proposed a similar program last year as part of his fuel economy program and sided with automakers while McCain rejected the idea. The idea appeals to Michigan voters and helps Obama to a 46% to 39% lead in the Detroit Free Press/Local 4 Michigan Poll conducted last month. The campaign touts the loans in a Michigan specific TV ad, following Obama’s pledge Thursday to “help our auto companies retool so that the fuel-efficient cars of the future are built right here in America.” The automakers’ three top executives General Motors Chairman Richard Wagoner, Ford Chief Executive Alan Mulally and Chrysler Chairman Bob Nardelli have not contributed to the election.





















