Trump says the Ohio auto plant must be reopened, even though GM must sell it

President Trump warned General Motors that "time is of the essence" to reopen a factory in Ohio that closed earlier this month, referring to the strong economy and competition of companies such as Toyota.

"Because the economy is so good, General Motors must get its Lordstown, Ohio, plant open, maybe in another form or with a new owner, FAST!" Trump tweeted Saturday. "Toyota invests $ 13.5 billion in the United States, others also. GM MUST RAISE FAST. Time is of the essence!"

General Motors eliminated 1

700 jobs at the assembly plant when it closed earlier this month, but has not signaled whether the plant will shut down permanently. Instead, the facility is in a "state of emergency" while contract negotiations continue throughout the year.

But according to Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine is not likely to GM revitalize the plant by bringing in a new line of vehicles. DeWine said the company kept him in the dark about what the plans might be, but could alert him in four to six weeks.

"My focus is to do everything to get jobs back in that plant and understand that our hands are really bound to there is any movement from General Motors," says DeWine Associated Press on Tuesday.