President-elect Donald Trump, while campaigning as the Republican presidential candidate in 2024, shared advice he'd give 25-year-olds during a speech at the Detroit Economic Club in Michigan.
In a video of the event posted by Forbes on YouTube, titled "Trump: This Is The Advice I'd Give To 25-Year-Olds," Trump offered guidance aimed at young adults in Detroit and beyond, sparking a wide range of reactions.
Speaking directly to younger audiences, Trump encouraged them to stay in their hometowns rather than leave in search of opportunities elsewhere.
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"I would stay right here and follow the gravy train because you're going to have such a great opportunity right in the area that you want to be," he said, emphasizing the importance of remaining close to family and community roots. He also suggested they wait to see the potential outcome of the election, implying that his presidency could lead to positive changes for Detroit and Michigan as a whole. "Let's see what happens in the election. This area will be thriving like probably almost no area in the country," he told the crowd.
Trump predicted an economic resurgence for the city, calling it a potential hot spot for growth and opportunities. "I think this area will be one of the hottest areas in the country. You'll get a great job because we're going to have a lot of opportunities right here in Michigan," he said, painting a vision of revitalized prosperity. In a particularly colorful moment, Trump advised young people to "follow the gravy train," suggesting that staying put in Detroit could lead to significant financial benefits in the future. "You'll be happier here and, I think, more successful here than in any other place in the country," he concluded.
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The comments quickly drew mixed reactions online and from Michigan's political leaders. Critics, including Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, pushed back against Trump's characterization of the city. Duggan defended Detroit's progress, noting its recent economic growth and cultural renaissance. "The city's economy is booming, the population is growing and our culture is unmatched," Duggan said in response. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer also weighed in, urging Trump to "keep Detroit out of your mouth" and predicting that Detroiters wouldn't forget his remarks at the polls in November.
State officials, such as Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson and House Speaker Joe Tate, also expressed disappointment, with many calling Trump's comments out of touch with the reality of Detroit's resurgence. Meanwhile, some audience members and commentators interpreted his remarks differently. Trump's campaign communications director explained that his comments highlighted Detroit's historical challenges, pointing to decades of industrial decline and job losses. Supporters framed the speech as part of Trump's broader strategy to connect with Michigan voters, especially those in the traditional manufacturing sector.
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Despite the backlash, Trump's remarks resonated with some in the room. Judy Moenck, a Detroit resident who attended the event, viewed his comments as a reference to Detroit's past struggles rather than an insult to its present, as reported by AP News. Others noted that Trump's messaging was aimed at Michigan voters, particularly workers concerned about economic policies affecting the auto industry and manufacturing jobs.
With the election now behind him, Trump's presidency will face the challenge of delivering on his promises to revive economic opportunities in Michigan and other key areas. Whether his vision for Detroit resonates with its residents remains to be seen. Still, the policies his administration implements in the coming years will undoubtedly shape the city’s future.
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