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Transportation

Auto Dealer Turned Senator Becomes Key Figure in Trump’s Anti-EV Crusade

  • Senator Bernie Moreno aims for influence on US auto policy
  • Ohio Republican has spoken with Fain, Barra and Farley
Bernie Moreno, left, during a swearing-in ceremony with his wife Bridget Moreno and Kamala Harris on Jan. 3.Photographer: Alex Wong/Getty Images

Bernie Moreno’s childhood dream was to become chairman of General Motors Co. He didn’t make it to the boardroom, but he did get elected to the US Senate, where he’s now aiming to wield influence over the auto industry as the chamber’s self-proclaimed “car czar.”

An Ohio Republican who built an empire of auto dealerships, Moreno has his sights on unwinding much of former President Joe Biden’s climate agenda: He wants to loosen regulation in the industry that made him his fortune, while also pressuring carmakers to bring more jobs and investment to the US.