Despite his strong opposition to Chinese electric vehicle (EV) companies, Donald Trump’s campaign manager, Susie Wiles, is co-chair of a lobbying firm that received nearly $1 million from a Chinese EV company. Wiles, however, denies involvement in Trump’s policy decisions or any role related to autos. The revelation has raised questions about potential conflicts of interest within Trump’s campaign.
Trump Criticizes Chinese EV Company While Campaign Manager’s Firm Receives Lobbying Funds
Donald Trump has consistently criticized electric vehicles (EVs) on the campaign trail, particularly targeting Kamala Harris’ plans to end gas-powered cars and opposing the construction of a Chinese electric battery plant in Michigan. Trump has warned that such projects could put Michigan “under the thumb of the Chinese Communist Party,” reinforcing his tough stance on U.S.-China relations.
Lobbying Funds Reveal a Connection
However, new information has surfaced revealing that Trump’s campaign manager, Susie Wiles, co-chairs a lobbying firm that received nearly $1 million from Gotion, a Chinese EV company. The funds, paid to Mercury Public Affairs, totaled $700,000 in 2024 and $200,000 in 2023, raising questions about potential conflicts of interest within Trump’s campaign as he rails against the same company in his public statements.
Susie Wiles Denies Direct Involvement
In response to these revelations, Wiles stated that she has not been working actively at Mercury since joining Trump’s presidential campaign and clarified that she is not a partner in the firm, so she does not share in its profits. Wiles emphasized that she does not advise Trump on policy matters, particularly related to the auto industry, and claimed no involvement or visibility into the Chinese EV company.
Trump’s Continued Opposition to Chinese EVs
Despite the lobbying connection, Trump continues to assert his strong opposition to Chinese EV companies. He has consistently opposed the Gotion battery plant project in Michigan, maintaining that it would harm the state and the country. Trump’s stance against Chinese involvement in the U.S. auto industry remains a focal point of his campaign as he promises to prioritize American workers.
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