Who is TJ Sabula? The Ford worker suspended after yelling “Pedophile Protector” at Trump

A Michigan autoworker has found himself at the center of a national political firestorm after a confrontation with President Donald Trump during a high-profile visit to a Ford Motor Company plant. TJ Sabula, a 40-year-old line worker at Ford’s River Rouge complex in Dearborn, was suspended pending an internal investigation after shouting an insult at the president that was captured on video and widely circulated online.

The incident occurred Tuesday as Trump toured the facility alongside Ford executives and senior administration officials. Video footage later obtained by TMZ shows the president appearing to mouth profanities and gesture with his middle finger in response to someone shouting from the factory floor.

What Did TJ Sabula Say During Trump’s Ford Plant Visit?

According to Sabula and multiple media reports, he shouted “pedophile protector!” at the president from approximately 60 feet away while Trump was walking through the production area. Sabula later confirmed to The Washington Post that he was the individual yelling in the video.

Sabula said the remark was directed at Trump’s handling of issues related to Jeffrey Epstein, the deceased sex offender whose case continues to draw public scrutiny. Trump has not been accused or charged with any wrongdoing related to Epstein.

“I have no regrets whatsoever,” Sabula said, adding that the president could hear him “very, very, very clearly.”

Trump’s Reaction and the White House Response

In the widely shared video clips, Trump appears to respond by pointing toward the factory floor, mouthing “f— you” twice, and briefly raising his middle finger as he continued walking.

The White House defended the president’s reaction, calling it justified.

“A lunatic was wildly screaming expletives in a complete fit of rage, and the President gave an appropriate and unambiguous response,” White House Communications Director Steven Cheung said in a statement.

The moment quickly became a flashpoint in ongoing debates over decorum, political protest, and presidential conduct.

READ ALSO

Who is behind the ICE list leak, and why were 4,500 Federal agents exposed?

Why Was TJ Sabula Suspended by Ford?

Ford confirmed Sabula was suspended pending an internal review, though the company emphasized that it does not comment on individual personnel matters.

Ford Executive Director of Corporate Communications David Tovar said the company does not condone inappropriate language within its facilities and follows established procedures when such incidents occur.

“One of our core values is respect,” Tovar said. “When that happens, we have a process to deal with it.”

Sabula, however, believes the suspension was politically motivated, saying he was “targeted for political retribution” after embarrassing the president in front of executives and supporters.

Who Is TJ Sabula?

Sabula describes himself as a political independent who has never voted for Trump but has supported some Republican candidates in the past. He framed his actions as a rare moment to confront power directly.

“I don’t feel as though fate looks upon you often,” Sabula said. “When it does, you better be ready to seize the opportunity.”

While he acknowledged concern about his job security, Sabula said he stood by his decision and would not take it back.

Why the Incident Is Resonating Nationally

The confrontation comes at a sensitive time for the Trump administration, as the Justice Department faces criticism for delays in releasing Epstein-related documents mandated by Congress. Though thousands of pages have been released, officials estimate only a small portion of the total archive has become public.

The clash between Sabula and Trump has fueled broader conversations about free speech in the workplace, political protest, and the boundaries of acceptable conduct during presidential appearances.

As Ford’s internal investigation continues, the episode remains a vivid example of how a brief moment on a factory floor can ripple across national politics.

FAQ

Who is TJ Sabula?

TJ Sabula is a 40-year-old line worker at Ford’s River Rouge plant in Dearborn, Michigan, who confronted President Donald Trump during a factory tour.

What did TJ Sabula say to Trump?

Sabula shouted “pedophile protector” at the president, referencing Trump’s handling of issues related to Jeffrey Epstein.

Why was TJ Sabula suspended from Ford?

Ford suspended Sabula pending an internal investigation, citing company policies on appropriate workplace conduct.

Did Trump flip someone off at the Ford plant?

Video footage appears to show Trump raising his middle finger and mouthing profanities in response to the heckler. The White House defended the response.

Has TJ Sabula been fired from Ford?

No. As of now, Sabula has been suspended, not terminated, while the company conducts its review.

Did Trump hear Sabula’s comment clearly?

Sabula said Trump could hear him “very, very, very clearly,” despite being about 60 feet away.

Is Trump accused of crimes related to Jeffrey Epstein?

No. Trump has not been accused or charged with any wrongdoing related to Epstein.

Is the incident under investigation?

Yes. Ford is conducting an internal investigation into the incident.