German trade unions condemn Audi chief's appearance at Trump rally

Top manager's political activity sparks outrage

A loud controversy has erupted in the German automotive sector over the actions of Audi's management. The company's head, Gernot Döllner, has found himself at the centre of criticism from trade union organisations and the management of parent company Volkswagen AG. The cause of the conflict is Döllner's appearance at a campaign event by US President Donald Trump.

Employee representatives described this appearance as disgraceful and politically unacceptable. At the same time, they supported the economic component of the decision, namely investments in American production, separating it from the political context of the Audi head's presence.

Investments and public support

As reported by DW, on 25 October, during a rally, Donald Trump announced that the German company, which is part of the Volkswagen AG group, would invest $4 billion in building a new plant in the state of Georgia. Following this announcement, Gernot Döllner took the stage, where he thanked the American leader for his support.

Reaction from employee representatives

"And after that, one of the highest-ranking representatives of our group takes the stage and effectively participates in election campaigning," Cavallo emphasised.

It is worth noting that Daniela Cavallo supported the plan to build a plant in the US, clearly distinguishing the company's economic decision from Döllner's political involvement.

Position of IG Metall trade union

Similar criticism was voiced by IG Metall trade union head Christiane Benner. She also criticised the actions of the Audi head, calling his participation in the rally "politically unacceptable" and "disgraceful".