Open Borders, Pro EV Mandate Politician to Respond to Joint Address

March 4, 2025

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Action Summary

Event Overview: Senator Elissa Slotkin to respond to President Donald J. Trump’s Joint Address to Congress on March 4, 2025.
Policy Stance on EV Mandates:
- Opposed to lower costs and manufacturing recovery initiatives tied to banning Biden’s tailpipe emissions rule.
- Voted against overturning Biden’s tailpipe emissions rule, which would force automakers to sell more electric vehicles.
- Criticized by research indicating Biden-Harris’s proposed EV mandates could cost up to 200,000 jobs, with additional concerns from a 2019 UAW study projecting losses of 35,000 jobs.
Border Security and Open Borders:
- Has repeatedly voted in favor of open borders, opposing border security measures.
- Voted against the H.R. 2 Secure the Border Act (May 2023) and against maintaining Trump’s emergency declaration at the southern border (February and March 2019 votes).
- Opposed a July 2024 resolution condemning the Biden Administration’s border policies, stating that a “wall from sea to shining sea” is unnecessary.
Political Implications: Portrayed as a politician whose voting record may hollow out American manufacturing and contribute to border insecurity, contrasting with President Trump’s focus on securing borders and reviving manufacturing and consumer protection.

Risks & Considerations

The potential repeal of electric vehicle (EV) mandates could impact Vanderbilt University’s research and development initiatives related to sustainable technologies and environmental policies. This may affect funding opportunities and partnerships with industries focused on green technology.
The political stance on border security and immigration could influence the university’s international student enrollment and collaborations with foreign institutions. Changes in immigration policies might affect the diversity and inclusivity of the student body.
The emphasis on traditional manufacturing jobs over EV production could shift the focus of engineering and technology programs at Vanderbilt, potentially affecting curriculum development and industry partnerships.
Vanderbilt may need to consider the broader economic implications of job losses in the Midwest due to changes in automotive industry policies, as this could affect the regional economy and, consequently, the university’s recruitment and outreach efforts.

Impacted Programs

Vanderbilt School of Engineering may need to adjust its focus on sustainable engineering practices and consider the implications of reduced emphasis on electric vehicle technologies.
Vanderbilt’s International Student and Scholar Services might need to prepare for potential changes in immigration policies that could affect international student admissions and support services.
The Vanderbilt Institute for Energy and Environment could see shifts in research priorities and funding opportunities related to environmental policies and sustainable energy solutions.
Vanderbilt’s Career Center may need to adapt its strategies to align with changing job market trends, particularly in the automotive and manufacturing sectors.

Financial Impact

Changes in federal policies regarding EV mandates and border security could influence the availability of research grants and funding for projects related to environmental sustainability and international collaboration.
The potential economic impact of job losses in the automotive sector may affect philanthropic contributions and partnerships with industries that support Vanderbilt’s programs and initiatives.
Vanderbilt may need to explore alternative funding sources and partnerships to support its sustainability and internationalization goals in light of shifting federal priorities.

Relevance Score: 3 (The policies present moderate risks involving compliance and potential shifts in program focus.)

Key Actions

Vanderbilt’s School of Engineering should evaluate the potential impacts of changes in automotive manufacturing policies on research and development opportunities. By aligning with industry trends towards electric vehicles, the school can enhance its programs and partnerships with automakers.
The Office of Federal Relations should monitor legislative developments related to border security and automotive manufacturing. Understanding these changes will help Vanderbilt anticipate shifts in federal funding and policy priorities that could affect research grants and collaborations.
Vanderbilt’s Center for Transportation and Operational Resiliency should explore research opportunities in the field of electric vehicle technology and its implications for job markets. This could position the university as a leader in addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by the transition to electric vehicles.

Opportunities

The focus on electric vehicle mandates presents an opportunity for Vanderbilt’s School of Engineering to expand its research in sustainable transportation technologies. By developing innovative solutions, the school can contribute to the advancement of electric vehicle technology and infrastructure.
Vanderbilt can capitalize on the increased attention to border security by engaging in policy research and analysis through its Department of Political Science. This research can provide valuable insights into the implications of border policies on national security and economic stability.
The emphasis on manufacturing jobs offers an opportunity for Vanderbilt’s Owen Graduate School of Management to develop programs focused on the future of work in the manufacturing sector. By preparing students for the evolving job market, the school can enhance its reputation and attract prospective students.

Relevance Score: 3 (Some adjustments are needed to processes or procedures to align with changes in automotive and border security policies.)

Average Relevance Score: 2

Timeline for Implementation

N/A

There were no specific deadlines or implementation timelines provided, as the article primarily covers political positions and past legislative actions.

Relevance Score: 1

Impacted Government Organizations

United States Congress: The Joint Address to Congress and the involvement of congressional votes (e.g., on disapproval of the EPA rule and border emergency resolutions) highlight Congress’s central role in the policy debates discussed.
House Budget Committee: As a key congressional body commenting on the impacts of the tailpipe emissions rule on traditional vehicle markets, this committee is directly mentioned in assessing economic implications.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): The EPA is referenced regarding Biden’s tailpipe emissions rule—its regulatory actions form a core element of the debate over auto industry mandates and job impacts.

Relevance Score: 2 (A small number of Federal Agencies are directly impacted by the discussion.)

Responsible Officials

N/A – The text does not contain any explicit directives requiring implementation by any specific officials.

Relevance Score: 1 (There are no direct implementation directives; the discussion is political commentary that does not impact high-level officials.)