Workers at Whirlpool, the largest appliance maker in the U.S., are voicing their frustration over recent job cuts at the Amana, Iowa plant. While the company supports former President Trump’s trade policies, many feel these policies aren’t benefiting American workers as hoped. Since Trump took office in January 2025, the U.S. has lost about 83,000 factory jobs.
On March 9, Whirlpool announced the loss of 341 jobs at the Amana plant, following a previous cut of 250 jobs in July 2025. Union leaders from the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) have warned that more cuts are on the horizon. This specific plant produces refrigerators under well-known brands like Whirlpool and KitchenAid.
Sandra Freytag, a long-time worker at the plant, mentioned that production lines have shifted to Mexico over the years. She expressed sadness over these changes, noting that worker numbers have plummeted from nearly 3,000 to just around 1,300. The plant employs many from nearby towns, and losing more jobs would severely impact the local economy.
Whirlpool opened a new facility in Mexico in August 2025. Union officials argue that not only are jobs being moved, but the products produced there are returning to the U.S. for sale.
During Trump’s presidency, Whirlpool sought tariffs on imported washing machines, claiming it would protect American jobs. Although Whirlpool celebrates these policies, critics say they’ve backfired. Tariffs have increased appliance prices by about $1.5 billion annually, leading to lower demand for U.S.-made products, according to research by the Heritage Foundation.
In upcoming discussions, experts suggest that companies like Whirlpool must balance profits with the welfare of American workers. With labor costs rising around the world, many American manufacturers are re-evaluating their strategies. Recent studies show that companies that prioritize local jobs often see better long-term success and customer loyalty.
As tensions rise, unit leaders criticize Whirlpool for cutting jobs after receiving millions in subsidies from Iowa. Sam Cicinelli, a union representative, argues that these layoffs reveal a troubling trend of moving jobs overseas in search of cheaper labor.
Kerry Waddell, a former worker turned union agent, stressed that employees face tough times without severance pay or health insurance after layoffs. They’ve received little information about these cuts, which adds to the uncertainty.
Workers are hopeful that Whirlpool will reconsider its strategy. Many believe that with proper investment, the Amana plant could thrive. They feel betrayed by decisions that prioritize profit over community.
Whirlpool maintains that these job cuts are part of a broader modernization plan aimed to improve their operations in Iowa. The company insists they are committed to U.S. manufacturing and supporting affected employees. However, sentiment among workers remains cautious.
With the landscape of American manufacturing shifting, cases like Whirlpool’s raise questions about the balance between effective policies and their real impact on workers. It highlights an ongoing discussion about the future of American jobs in the face of globalization and changing trade dynamics.
For more on the impact of tariffs and trade policies, you can read the analysis provided by reputable sources such as The Wall Street Journal and Heritage Foundation.
