AKRON—Richard Kramer, Goodyear chairman, CEO and president, said the presentation slide that led President Trump to call for a boycott of Goodyear products was created at its plant in Topeka, Kan.
In a statement posted to the company's Facebook page Aug. 20, Goodyear said a plant employee made the slide without prior approval of the company's corporate office.
"The slide was not approved or distributed by Goodyear Corporate or anyone outside of (the Topeka) facility," Kramer wrote in the statement. "I deeply regret the impression it has created and want to clarify Goodyear's position."
Kramer went on to reiterate Goodyear does not endorse any political organization, party or candidate.
"Secondly," Kramer said, "Goodyear strongly supports our law enforcement partners and deeply appreciate all they do to put their lives on the line each and every day for our communities.
"We have proudly supplied tires to police and fire personnel for more than 100 years, and the relationship is foundational to our company."
Kramer said the tire maker has clarified to employees that they may express support for law enforcement by wearing apparel at Goodyear facilities.
"The core of our company is our people and our culture," Mr. Kramer wrote. "Goodyear has always supported both law enforcement and equal justice. We will always do so."