Michigan Republicans challenge Dems over Chinese EV deal in key race

In Michigan's 7th Congressional District race, Republicans are targeting former Democratic State Sen. Curtis Hertel over his involvement with a controversial electric vehicle battery plant project backed by a Chinese Communist Party-affiliated company, Gotion Inc. Hertel signed a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) to access details about the project, which has raised concerns among local voters regarding the use of taxpayer funds. The project has become a focal point in the campaign, especially as Democratic Rep. Elissa Slotkin, who is vacating her seat to run for U.S. Senate, has publicly opposed the deal. The controversy intensified when it was revealed that Hertel was among several lawmakers who received funds from a Political Action Committee linked to a law firm representing Gotion. His opponent, former Republican State Sen. Tom Barrett, has criticized Hertel for signing the NDA and has called for transparency regarding the $175 million in taxpayer money allocated to the project. Barrett argues that Hertel's actions are indicative of a broader issue of ceding control of the auto industry to China. In response, Hertel's campaign has dismissed the Republican claims as false attacks, asserting that he did not sign an NDA with Gotion. The debate over the plant has also attracted national attention, with former President Donald Trump expressing strong opposition to the project, emphasizing the need to prioritize American manufacturing over foreign interests. As the election approaches, the implications of this controversy could significantly impact voter sentiment in a district that is considered a toss-up, highlighting the ongoing tensions surrounding foreign investment in American industries and the political ramifications of such deals.