Ford worker suspended after viral confrontation with Trump at Detroit plant
DETROIT — The Ford auto worker who went viral after heckling President Donald Trump during his visit to a Detroit-area Ford plant this week has now been suspended from his job, according to multiple reports.
The incident happened Tuesday when 40-year-old TJ Sabula shouted “pedophile protector!” at Trump as the president toured the facility. Trump, standing on an elevated platform, fired back by flipping Sabula the middle finger and appearing to mouth “f*** you” — a moment later confirmed and defended by the White House.
Now, hours later, Sabula says Ford has placed him on suspension pending an internal investigation.
“As far as calling him out, definitely no regrets whatsoever,” Sabula told The Washington Post, standing by his actions despite the consequences.
‘Political Retribution,’ Worker Claims
Sabula said he believes the suspension is not about workplace conduct, but politics — accusing management of retaliating against him for embarrassing Trump in front of political allies and executives.
“I’ve been targeted for political retribution,” Sabula said, adding that he understood the risks but felt compelled to speak out.
Sabula identified himself as a political independent, telling the paper that while he has never voted for Trump, he has supported Republican candidates in the past.
White House Defends Trump’s Gesture
The White House wasted no time defending the president’s response.
In a statement, White House Communications Director Steven Cheung dismissed Sabula as unstable and justified Trump’s obscene gesture.
“A lunatic was wildly screaming expletives in a complete fit of rage, and the President gave an appropriate and unambiguous response,” Cheung said.
Ford has not publicly commented on Sabula’s suspension or whether it will lead to termination.
