Biden Races to Finalize Rivian Loan Before Trump Takes Power
In a race to the finish line, the Biden administration is hustling to secure federal financing for Rivian before Trump takes office next week. According to Bloomberg, the Department of Energy is expected to finalize a major loan of up to $6.6 billion to help fund Rivian’s new manufacturing plant in Georgia, a key part of the company’s growth strategy.
The timing couldn’t be more crucial. Trump’s incoming administration has made it clear that it plans to reevaluate last-minute green energy deals. During his previous term, Trump pushed to shut down the Energy Department’s loan program, viewing it as a misuse of taxpayer money. This time, with billions at stake, it’s likely to be an even bigger political flashpoint.
Vivek Ramaswamy, a key figure in Trump’s transition team, has already hinted at plans to scrutinize and potentially cancel loans rushed through in the final days of Biden’s presidency. Rivian’s loan is on that radar, making the company’s federal backing far from guaranteed.
For Rivian, this loan could make a huge difference as it looks to scale production. But if the new administration pulls the plug, the EV maker may need to pivot quickly to stay on course. With the transition looming, this is more than just a bureaucratic shuffle—it’s a potential game-changer for Rivian’s future.
As the dust settles, all eyes will be on Rivian to see how it weathers the political storm and keeps its ambitious plans on track.