Audi CEO Faces Criticism Over Trump Rally Appearance
Audi CEO Gernot Döllner has faced criticism from Germany’s leading trade union following his appearance alongside US President Donald Trump at a rally in Perry, Georgia, on October 24. The event announced plans for a $4 billion Audi assembly plant in Georgia, which is expected to produce 200,000 SUVs annually. The proposed investment still requires approval from Volkswagen’s supervisory board.
Christiane Benner, head of Germany’s IG Metall union, described Döllner’s appearance as “deeply embarrassing” and politically unacceptable, arguing that it violated Audi’s corporate guidelines. The company’s code of conduct prohibits public engagements with political parties or politicians standing for election, as well as sponsorship of such events, during the three months before an election.
The proposed US factory comes as Volkswagen seeks to reduce the impact of US tariffs on its business and strengthen its manufacturing presence in the country. Meanwhile, the automaker is undergoing a major restructuring in Germany involving substantial job cuts and potential plant closures. The investment plan highlights Audi’s efforts to navigate trade pressures while balancing business expansion with corporate governance expectations.
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