The automobile industry requested government assistance to expedite approvals from the Chinese government for importing rare earth magnets used in automotive applications, amidst new export license restrictions.

Opensecrets released a detailed profile on the automotive industry's lobbying expenditures, compiled from Senate Office of Public Records data covering January 1 through March 31, with data downloaded on May 14, 2025. The information exposes significant political lobbying activities by the industry.

A Senate Finance Committee investigation revealed that several automakers, including BMW, Jaguar Land Rover, and VW AG, shipped vehicles that incorporated components from a Chinese supplier known for using forced Uyghur labor. Despite early warnings and notifications, the industry failed to adequately police its supply chains, highlighting a systemic ethical oversight.

A Human Rights Watch report warns that major carmakers, including Toyota, may be indirectly supporting forced labor in their Chinese supply chains. Toyota has stated that it will review the report, but the allegations raise concerns over labor rights and ethical sourcing practices.

The UAW has initiated a bold campaign to unionize all major automakers simultaneously, including Toyota, as part of a broader effort to secure better wages, benefits, and working conditions for auto production workers. This move follows previous successful strikes and voluntary pay hikes at other automakers, highlighting the growing pressure on the industry to address worker exploitation.

Following a historic strike that led to major concessions from the Detroit Three, UAW President Shawn Fain announced intentions to organize nonunion automakers, including Toyota. This move signals potential improvements in worker conditions and heightened labor rights actions in the automobile industry.

A report by researchers at Sheffield Hallam University alleges that major auto manufacturers, including those within the global automobile industry, are linked to forced labor practices in China's Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. The findings indicate that key components and raw materials used in vehicles may be sourced from supply chains tainted by forced labor, raising severe ethical and human rights concerns for the industry.

Senate Finance Committee Chair Ron Wyden expanded his investigation into auto supply chain links to forced labor in Xinjiang, China, sending detailed inquiries to major tier 1 suppliers and automakers. The investigation questions whether these companies adequately monitor and enforce labor rights within their complex supply chains.

An analysis of auto manufacturers' PAC contributions for the 2023-2024 election cycle has been detailed on OpenSecrets.org, highlighting significant campaign contributions and lobbying activities. The report underscores the use of dark money and the influence of corporate lobbying in shaping political agendas, raising concerns over potential impacts on democratic integrity and worker rights.

Following scrutiny after the U.S. Capitol siege, the auto industry is reexamining its political donation practices. The move comes as political action committees associated with the industry, which historically supported both Republican and Democratic candidates, face increased public scrutiny over their funding choices.