Summary
- U.S. Senate candidates in Michigan are battling over electric vehicles and so-called EV mandates ahead of Election Day
- Democratic candidate Elissa Slotkin opposes EV mandates, wants new generation of vehicles built in Michigan
- Slotkin’s opponent, Mike Rogers, also opposes EV mandates and criticizes Biden administration’s policies on curbing emissions and promoting EV technology
- Slotkin’s ad emphasizing domestic production and supporting EV policies faces criticism and rebuttal from her opponent’s campaign
- Outside groups, including the American Fuel and Petrochemical Manufacturers, are launching ads attacking Democratic candidates in swing states like Michigan over their EV policies
Article
As Election Day approaches, U.S. Senate candidates in Michigan are engaging in a heated battle over electric vehicles (EVs) and potential mandates related to them. Democratic candidate Elissa Slotkin has released an ad opposing any mandates related to EVs, claiming that no one should be forced to buy them. Her Republican opponent, Mike Rogers, has also voiced his opposition to EV mandates in his campaign, framing it as a way to protect consumers from being forced to purchase electric cars. The issue of EV mandates has become a central focus of the campaign, highlighting the importance of EVs in auto-heavy Michigan.
A recent poll found that just over half of likely Michigan voters believe it is important for the state to aggressively compete in EV manufacturing. However, less than a quarter of those surveyed expressed interest in purchasing or leasing an electric vehicle. Slotkin emphasizes the importance of building the next generation of vehicles in Michigan rather than China, while Rogers focuses on fighting against EV mandates to protect jobs and take on Chinese dominance in the industry. Despite the controversy surrounding EV mandates, the Biden administration has not forced consumers to buy electric cars but has implemented policies to promote their production and reduce emissions.
Slotkin’s ad, which aired in Flint, Grand Rapids, and Detroit, proclaims her opposition to EV mandates and highlights the importance of manufacturing EVs in Michigan. The Rogers campaign quickly responded to the ad, disputing Slotkin’s claims and accusing her of lying about her record on EVs. The response highlighted Slotkin’s voting record and accused her of supporting policies that would negatively affect Michigan automakers and workers. The debate over EV mandates and policies has become a central focus of the campaign, with both candidates presenting contrasting views on the issue.
Critics of Slotkin, such as the Rogers campaign and the American Fuel and Petrochemical Manufacturers group, have linked her to policies from the Biden administration that they claim would result in a ban on most new gas-powered cars. Outside groups have launched ads attacking Slotkin’s record on EVs and tying her to policies they argue would have negative impacts on the auto industry. The debate over EV mandates and their potential effects on Michigan auto jobs has become a key point of contention in the Senate race, with conflicting views on how the transition to EVs will impact the industry.
As the campaign intensifies, both candidates continue to focus on their positions on EV mandates and policies related to electric vehicles. Slotkin’s support for policies promoting EV production and reducing emissions is contrasted with Rogers’ opposition to mandates and focus on protecting jobs in the auto industry. The debate over EV mandates, job loss, and the future of the auto industry in Michigan is a central theme of the campaign, with both candidates seeking to sway voters with their contrasting views on the issue. The outcome of the Senate race could have significant implications for the future of EVs in Michigan and the broader auto industry.
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