Audi CEO Defends Trump Rally Appearance and $4 Billion Plant

Audi CEO Gernot Dollner defended his decision to appear at a campaign rally for U.S. President Donald Trump in Georgia, where the automaker announced plans to build a US$4 billion plant. In a letter to employees, Dollner stated the investment was made solely in the interest of the company, though he admitted the announcement was taken as signalling a political stance.

The move triggered immediate backlash from German labor leaders. IG Metall head Christiane Benner and Volkswagen works council chief Daniela Cavallo condemned the appearance as politically unacceptable and a violation of internal guidelines prohibiting campaign activity shortly before an election. Benner described the event as highly embarrassing and unworthy of the company and its employees.

The planned investment occurs as parent company Volkswagen manages weak U.S. demand and tariff pressures while negotiating wage cuts and restructuring in Germany. The project remains subject to approval from the Volkswagen supervisory board, where worker representatives maintain significant influence.