A Ford factory worker who was suspended after heckling President Donald Trump has become the focus of a major crowdfunding effort, with GoFundMe campaigns raising more than $800,000 in less than a day.
The employee, TJ Sabula, said he shouted at Trump during the president’s visit to a Michigan plant where Ford builds its F-150 trucks. Video from the event shows Trump reacting after the remark, which Sabula later confirmed was his. The White House described the interruption as disruptive and inappropriate.
Ford suspended Sabula following the incident, a move that is now being reviewed by the United Auto Workers union, which represents employees at the plant. Union leaders said they support workers’ right to free expression while also stressing that no one should be subjected to abusive language at work.
Two GoFundMe campaigns were launched in support of Sabula, quickly drawing tens of thousands of donors. Organizers later paused donations, thanking supporters and saying the response had exceeded expectations.
The incident has fueled a broader debate about free speech in the workplace, public conduct at political events, and how companies should respond when employees become part of national controversies.