Audi CEO faces backlash after joining Trump at midterm campaign rally
- Audi CEO Gernot Doellner appeared alongside President Donald Trump at a Georgia campaign rally to announce a $4 billion plant in Perry, Georgia, designed to produce 200,000 SUVs annually.
- Christiane Benner, head of Germany's IG Metall union, accused Doellner of violating Audi's code of conduct, which bars public appearances with politicians standing for election during the three months before a vote.
- Benner called the appearance "deeply embarrassing, politically unacceptable" and unworthy of Audi employees. The company's policy explicitly prohibits "public engagements with political parties or politicians standing for election" during election windows.
- The $4 billion project requires approval from the Volkswagen supervisory board, which manages tensions over sweeping restructuring. Benner stressed the decision must be made "with the full picture in mind."
- Audi's US expansion coincides with Volkswagen's push to cut 100,000 jobs amid heavy losses in China and costly EV transitions. Trump's past support for the AfD party further complicates his role as an ally for German corporate leadership.
186 Articles
186 Articles
Gernot Döllner, who appeared alongside the President of the United States at a meeting in Georgia on Saturday, October 24, to announce investments in the South State, is now facing intense controversy in Germany.
Audi CEO Gernot Döllner attended a campaign rally with Donald Trump this weekend, just days before the midterm elections. His participation is now being met with strong criticism in Germany.
German Left Demands Audi CEO Resign after Joining ‘Autocrat’ Trump at Georgia Rally
Audi CEO Gernot Döllner has been accused of campaigning for an ‘autocrat’ and dragging Volkswagen—a company founded by the Nazis—to a ‘new low’ after appearing with Donald Trump at a Republican rally. The backlash comes as Audi announces a $4 billion US plant expected to create 4,500 jobs while preparing to cut 7,500 positions in Germany by 2029.
derwesten.de
thueringen24.deAudi CEO Gernot Döllner performs with Trump on an election campaign stage. Why the appearance triggers criticism and becomes Audi's codex a problem.
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