Trump Gives Middle Finger to Ford Worker After ‘Pedophile Protector’ Critique

The United Auto Workers union confirmed Monday that a Ford employee who heckled U.S. President Donald Trump during an on-site visit last month was not disciplined and retained his job.

According to the union, Trump raised his middle finger and shouted profanity toward the worker after he criticized Trump’s handling of the Jeffrey Epstein controversy. A video posted online shows the incident occurring January 13 at the Ford F-150 assembly plant in Dearborn, Michigan.

UAW Vice President Laura Dickerson revealed that during the event, Trump informed Thomas “TJ” Sabula he would be fired. However, she stated that the union supports Sabula’s free speech rights and has confirmed he remains employed without disciplinary action on his record.

“This ain’t ‘The Apprentice,’” Dickerson said, referencing the reality show Trump hosted prior to becoming president where contestants faced dismissal for poor performance in tasks.

Dickerson described the worker who shouted “pedophile protector” as having “famously told Mr. Trump exactly what he thought of him.” She added that Trump’s response—giving them the middle finger—revealed his attitude toward working people.

Online fundraising campaigns for Sabula surpassed $800,000 before being suspended. Ford’s executive chairman Bill Ford called the incident “unfortunate” and expressed embarrassment following the factory tour. The White House did not immediately respond to requests for comment.