EV Mandates Under Fire as Auto Industry Faces Crossroads

On December 17, 2024, Lauren Fix and Jon Boesen joined the show. Analyzed Trump’s plan to eliminate EV mandates and Elon Musk’s support for it, examined struggling automakers including Jaguar, Nissan, and Volkswagen, and warned of China’s strategy to destroy domestic auto industries through subsidized exports Explained how workers who become unable to work for 12 consecutive months can apply for Social.

Auto Industry at a Crossroads

Start listening at 28:08 – Hour 1

Lauren Fix, the Car Coach, breaks down President-elect Trump’s plan to eliminate EV mandates and why Elon Musk supports the move despite leading the electric vehicle market. Fix explains that removing the mandates would eliminate Tesla’s competition by ending the $7,500 federal tax credits that prop up less competitive manufacturers.

The discussion turns to California Governor Gavin Newsom’s proposed state-level EV tax credit that would exclude Tesla, a move Fix calls politically motivated and counterproductive. She warns that manufacturers like Jaguar, Nissan, and Volkswagen face serious financial trouble, with Jaguar alienating its customer base through a controversial rebranding that dismisses existing owners in favor of an unproven luxury market strategy.

Fix sounds the alarm on China’s strategy of subsidizing car exports to undercut domestic manufacturers, pointing to the devastation already inflicted on the German auto industry where Volkswagen is closing three plants and demanding 10 percent pay cuts from workers. She argues the $100 percent tariff on Chinese vehicles is essential to prevent the same collapse in America.

“If I could afford it, I would buy it. I can’t afford it, so I don’t. I mean, this is how clueless the government is.”

Lauren Fix, Car Coach Reports

Accessing Social Security Disability Benefits

Start listening at 62:10 – Hour 2

Jon Boesen of Boesen Law explains that workers who become unable to work for 12 consecutive months due to injury or illness have the right to seek Social Security disability benefits. These benefits come from taxes paid equally by employers and employees throughout their working careers.

Boesen emphasizes that navigating the application process requires professional assistance. His firm has a dedicated team that helps clients from application through the administrative law judge hearing where medical records and testimony determine qualification. For those facing extended periods away from work, these benefits can keep food on the table during difficult times.

“If someone works, they pay into the system. Taxes are collected by the government, and some of those taxes go for Social Security. Not just retirement, but also disability benefits.”

Jon Boesen, Boesen Law

New Colorado Laws Take Effect January 2025

Start listening at 98:43 – Hour 2

Kim examines several new Colorado laws taking effect in January 2025, including a ban on holding cell phones while driving with fines starting at $70, updated child car seat requirements raising the booster seat age to nine, mandatory cage-free egg standards that will increase food costs, and new gun storage requirements in vehicles with fines up to $500. Caller Ron argues these incremental regulations condition citizens for larger government control measures.