In a recent debate for a U.S. Senate seat in Michigan, Rep. Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) made a controversial claim asserting that “there is no EV [electric vehicle] mandate.” This statement was met with skepticism and pushback, particularly from her opponent, former Rep. Mike Rogers (R-MI). Slotkin insisted that she does not have a preference regarding whether Michiganders drive electric or gas-powered vehicles. However, her voting record paints a different picture, suggesting that her claims may not accurately reflect her stance on electric vehicle regulations and policies.
Contrary to her assertions, Rep. Slotkin has consistently voted in favor of measures that support the Biden-Harris administration’s electric vehicle mandates. Her recent votes demonstrate a clear alignment with the push to phase out gas-powered automobiles. Notably, just a month prior to the debate, Slotkin opposed legislation aimed at rolling back the administration’s rule that would mandate a majority of new vehicles sold in the U.S. to be hybrids or electric by 2032. This track record contradicts her claim of indifference towards the type of vehicle Americans choose to drive.
Compounding her credibility issues, Slotkin also voted against measures that would prevent states from enacting limitations on the sale of gas-powered vehicles. This vote took place during a critical period marked by a United Auto Workers strike, where the push for electric vehicles was identified as a contributing factor to the labor unrest. Rogers capitalized on this disconnect during the debate, arguing that Slotkin’s voting behavior not only contradicts her claims but is also damaging to Michigan’s automotive industry, a sector crucial to the state’s economy.
During the debate, Rogers pointed out her inconsistency, stating that Slotkin had voted in favor of EV mandates on at least three different occasions. He highlighted the distress felt by the automotive community in Michigan, referencing an open letter from 5,000 auto dealers who expressed concerns that the push for electric vehicle mandates is detrimental to the car business. Rogers emphasized that this demand for a shift away from gas-powered vehicles could lead to significant negative repercussions for local dealerships and the broader automotive landscape.
Despite the mounting evidence against her claims, Slotkin continued to assert during the debate that there was no existing EV mandate and reiterated her indifference towards the type of vehicles driven in Michigan. This unwavering stance raises questions about the authenticity of her position and the potential implications of her voting record for her constituents. By downplaying the significance of electric vehicle policies, Slotkin risks alienating voters who are concerned about the economic impacts of such mandates on the state’s automotive industry.
In conclusion, the debate highlighted a stark contradiction between Rep. Elissa Slotkin’s claims regarding electric vehicle mandates and her voting history that supports the Biden-Harris administration’s agenda. Her insistence that there is no EV mandate appears to conflict with her legislative actions, which have showcased a pattern of support for policies aimed at phasing out gas-powered vehicles. As the conversation around electric vehicles and their implications for Michigan’s economy continues to evolve, Slotkin’s credibility and alignment with her constituents will be critical factors in the upcoming election. Her ability to navigate these issues may ultimately determine her political future and the fate of the automotive industry in Michigan.