Ford Worker Suspended After Calling Trump ‘Pedophile Protector’ During Plant Visit: Says “No Regrets Whatsoever”
A Ford worker was suspended after calling President Donald Trump a “pedophile protector” during Trump’s visit to a Michigan plant and the worker says he has “no regrets” about the confrontation. The exchange at the Ford River Rouge complex in Dearborn on Jan. 13 was captured on video that quickly went viral, showing Trump respond with profanity and a raised middle finger.
The clash unfolded as Trump toured the F-150 factory ahead of a speech at the Detroit Economic Club. Sabula, a 40-year-old United Auto Workers Local 600 line worker, shouted the phrase at the president from the factory floor, referencing Trump’s handling of controversies tied to Jeffrey Epstein. Trump appeared to respond by mouthing “f— you” and giving the middle finger before continuing his tour.
Ford confirmed the incident and said it expects respect in its facilities but would not discuss personnel matters tied to the suspension. Online fundraisers launched for Sabula have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars in recent days.
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The United Auto Workers released a statement backing the right of its members to free speech and said it would use negotiated contract protections to safeguard Sabula’s job. The White House defended Trump’s response as “appropriate,” according to a statement posted alongside the video.
Sabula told The Washington Post he has “no regrets whatsoever” despite fearing for his job and potential political retaliation.
The incident highlights tensions over political expression in workplace settings as the 2026 election year unfolds and raises questions about company discipline, union protections, and presidential conduct during public appearances. What happens next may hinge on the outcome of internal Ford reviews and union negotiations on Sabula’s behalf.
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