The results of the U.S. election may leave some things to be determined, but one thing that automotive aftermarket observers and professionals are certain about is that they are going to push the new administration on issues affecting this industry, particularly right to repair.
MEMA, The Vehicle Suppliers Association, which represents both original equipment and aftermarket companies, issued a statement congratulating President-Elect Donald Trump and Vice President-Elect J.D. Vance.
The Republicans beat Democratic candidate Kamala Harris and running mate Tim Walz for the White House, while also taking the House of Representatives and Senate on Nov. 5.
“MEMA is committed to fostering a profitable and innovative supplier community and we look forward to collaborating closely with the Trump administration to foster greater competitiveness for the U.S. supplier industry,” the statement said.
They further pointed out their commitment to driving home the importance of motor vehicle manufacturing, the biggest employer of manufacturing jobs in the U.S.
“We are dedicated to working with our members to educate policymakers about the unique challenges and opportunities facing our industry,” the group said. “We look forward to a constructive dialogue with the Trump administration and the 119th Congress to advance policies that benefit and strengthen the future of the supplier industry.”
At AAPEX 2024 in Las Vegas, MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers president Paul McCarthy dove into the right to repair issue during his group’s Member & Media Breakfast, highlighting that following the election of a populist president, there is no more popular issue than this.
“There are few issues that affect as many Americans,” he said.
Ann Wilson, MEMA’s executive vice president of government affairs, said the election results point to the concerns people have about their finances.
“And we know what the average cost of a new vehicle is,” she said, continuing to add that people can’t afford new cars and so having the ability to repair what they have is paramount.
“More and more people and turning to be the second or third owner of a vehicle as a way to get their kids to school, to get to work and do all the things they are doing because they simply can’t afford a $50,000, $60,000 vehicle,” Murray said. “So I think there are things that we can learn from the election that we can use in this debate that are going to resonate with members of Congress and other policymakers.”
Right to repair was highlighted in a statement from the Auto Care Association. The group said it looks forward to collaborating with the incoming Trump administration, pointing to “policies that promote innovation, ensure consumer choice and strengthen the skilled automotive workforce.”
The association noted that it is standing firm in its position to ensure vehicle owners and independent repair shops have access to information needed to repair and maintain vehicles.
“With widespread support among American voters across the country, the association looks forward to engaging with the new administration to support bipartisan legislative and regulatory initiatives that protect the right to repair and maintain a competitive, transparent marketplace,” it said.
