‘F— You’: Auto Worker Calls Trump a ‘Pedo Protector,’ Gets Suspended — but Has ‘No Regrets’
TJ Sabula, the 40-year-old Ford auto worker who boldly shouted “pedophile protector” at President Donald Trump during a Tuesday plant tour in Detroit, has firmly defended his actions, declaring he has “no regrets whatsoever” despite being suspended from his job pending investigation.
The confrontation—captured on multiple videos that quickly went viral has reignited national debate over Trump’s long-standing ties to Jeffrey Epstein, his administration’s handling of the Epstein files, and the limits of workplace free speech when confronting a sitting president.
The incident occurred at Ford’s River Rouge complex in Dearborn, Michigan, where Trump was touring the facility ahead of a speech at the Detroit Economic Club. Sabula, standing approximately 60 feet away, yelled the pointed insult—a clear reference to Trump’s association with Epstein and the ongoing controversy surrounding the partial and delayed release of Epstein-related documents.
Trump reacted immediately and viscerally: he pointed his finger directly at Sabula, shouted “F— you!” twice, and gave him the middle finger before continuing the tour. The exchange was filmed by multiple onlookers and workers, with clips spreading rapidly across social media platforms.
In an interview with The Washington Post, Sabula stood by his decision without apology: “As far as calling him out, definitely no regrets whatsoever.” He described the moment as a rare opportunity to speak truth to power: “I don’t feel as though fate looks upon you often, and when it does, you better be ready to seize the opportunity. And today I think I did that.”
Sabula confirmed the insult was specifically tied to Trump’s handling of the Epstein files, stating that the president “could hear me very, very, very clearly” despite the distance. He identified as a political independent who has supported some Republican candidates in the past but has never voted for Trump.
Ford’s Response and Suspension
Ford Motor Company responded with a measured statement: “We had a great event today. We’re proud of how our employees represented Ford.”
The company added: “We’ve seen the clip you’re referring to. One of our core values is respect and we don’t condone anyone saying anything inappropriate like that within our facilities. When that happens, we have a process to deal with it but we don’t get into specific personnel matters.”
Sabula has since been suspended pending investigation, a decision he described as “political retribution” for publicly embarrassing Trump in front of media, supporters, and plant employees.
White House Communications Director Steven Cheung addressed the incident earlier, stating: “A lunatic was wildly screaming expletives in a complete fit of rage, and the President gave an appropriate and unambiguous response.”
The response aligns with the administration’s pattern of framing criticism as unhinged or illegitimate, particularly on sensitive issues like Epstein.
Sabula’s insult directly referenced Trump’s past relationship with Jeffrey Epstein and the ongoing fallout from the partial release of Epstein files under the Transparency Act.
Trump campaigned on promising full disclosure but has faced criticism for delays, heavy redactions, and temporary removals of sensitive items—including documents and photos featuring Trump himself.
The administration has dismissed many allegations in the files as “untrue and sensationalist,” insisting they lack credibility and would have been “weaponized” earlier if legitimate.
The Epstein controversy has alienated some MAGA supporters, including members of Trump’s own party. Rep. Thomas Massie has threatened Attorney General Pam Bondi with contempt of Congress over missed deadlines, while former Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, who resigned amid a falling-out with Trump, claimed he told her full disclosure would “hurt” his friends.
Why It Matters
Sabula’s public confrontation and subsequent suspension has raised questions about the boundaries of free speech in politically charged workplace environments, especially when the president is present.
Labor advocates argue the suspension constitutes retaliation for protected political expression, while others note that company facilities have rules against disruptive behavior.
The incident has also highlighted the enduring political potency of the Epstein case, which continues to generate distrust across the ideological spectrum. For many critics, Sabula’s stand represents a rare moment of direct accountability; for supporters of the administration, it is seen as disrespectful and out of line.
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Sabula remains unapologetic as the suspension investigation proceeds. Whether he pursues legal recourse, receives reinstatement, or becomes a symbol of resistance, his confrontation has ensured that Trump’s Epstein ties and the public’s lingering anger—remain part of the national conversation.
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