### Ford Factory Worker Who Heckled Trump Keeps Job Despite Suspension A Ford factory employee who heckled President Donald Trump during his visit to the Dearborn Truck Plant on January 13, 2026, has kept his job despite initial suspension. Thomas "TJ" Sabula, a 40-year-old UAW Local 600 line worker, was initially suspended following the incident but has officially retained his job. ### The Incident The incident went viral shortly after President Trump's visit to the Ford factory, partially due to his response to the heckler, which included expletives and then raising his middle finger. Initially, Sabula was suspended following the incident, but President Trump reportedly told him that he would be fired. ### UAW Support However, UAW leadership stood behind Sabula's free speech rights and ensured he was able to keep his job. Online fundraising campaigns for Sabula gathered over $800,000 before they were suspended, amassing donations from around the ...
### Ford Factory Worker Who Heckled Trump Keeps Job Despite Suspension
A Ford factory employee who heckled President Donald Trump during his visit to the Dearborn Truck Plant on January 13, 2026, has kept his job despite initial suspension. Thomas “TJ” Sabula, a 40-year-old UAW Local 600 line worker, was initially suspended following the incident but has officially retained his job.
### The Incident
The incident went viral shortly after President Trump’s visit to the Ford factory, partially due to his response to the heckler, which included expletives and then raising his middle finger. Initially, Sabula was suspended following the incident, but President Trump reportedly told him that he would be fired.
### UAW Support
However, UAW leadership stood behind Sabula’s free speech rights and ensured he was able to keep his job. Online fundraising campaigns for Sabula gathered over $800,000 before they were suspended, amassing donations from around the country.
### Ford’s Response
Ford’s executive chairman Bill Ford expressed regret shortly after the incident, saying that “it’s unfortunate” and that he “was embarrassed because we’re the host.” Despite these condemnations from company executives, Sabula told The Washington Post that he didn’t regret his action following the incident.
### Online Support
The outspoken auto worker received significant support online after his initial suspension. Online fundraising campaigns for Sabula gathered over $800,000 before they were suspended, amassing donations from around the country.
### Conclusion
The incident highlights the ongoing tension between labor unions and corporate executives. While Ford has condemned the heckling, the UAW has stood behind Sabula’s right to free speech. The incident serves as a reminder of the complex relationships between workers, management, and politicians.
### Ford’s Future Plans
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### About the Author
Emmet White is an Associate Editor at Autoweek and Road & Track. He has a passion for anything that goes: cars, bicycles, planes, and motorcycles. After learning to ride at 17, Emmet worked in the motorcycle industry before joining Autoweek in 2022 and Road & Track in 2024.
### Description
This article explores the controversy surrounding a Ford factory worker who heckled President Donald Trump during his visit to the Dearborn Truck Plant on January 13, 2026. The incident highlights the ongoing tension between labor unions and corporate executives, and raises questions about free speech and workplace protests.
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