In addition, the automaker plans to reduce its workforce by 15 percent or more than 14,000 white-collar and factory workers.
In an interview with the Wall Street Journal on Monday, Trump said he spoke with Barra on Sunday and warned that the company is “playing around with the wrong person.”
The president also demanded that the automaker should stop manufacturing cars in China and “better damn well open a new plant” in Ohio “very quickly.” Trump said “I love Ohio.”
Separately, Trump told White House reporters that he is “not happy” with GM’s decision. He added, “I have no doubt that in a not too distant future they’ll put something else. They better put something else in.”
GM’s response to Trump’s threats
In response to the president’s escalating threats, GM tweeted, “We are committed to maintaining a strong manufacturing presence in the U.S. Many of the U.S. workers impacted by our actions will have the opportunity to support new growing areas.”
“That includes adding technical and engineering jobs that support the future mobility. We’re on a journey to create a better world today, and for generations to come.”
