Workers at major Detroit automakers have shown strong support for a strike authorization measure amid ongoing talks between the United Auto Workers (UAW) union and the companies. While final vote counts are still being compiled, the collective approval rate across the three largest automakers was around 97%. This vote, which allows the UAW leadership to potentially initiate a strike, is a procedural step and doesn’t guarantee an actual strike will occur.
Shawn Fain, the newly elected president of UAW, highlighted the frustration of union members with their financial situations compared to the profits of corporate elites. The UAW is in the process of negotiating new labor agreements for approximately 146,000 hourly workers at General Motors, Ford Motor, and Stellantis. The current contracts are set to expire on September 14th.
The negotiations have become contentious, with the UAW leadership expressing dissatisfaction with the pace of progress. Fain criticized Stellantis for requesting concessions during negotiations, considering them disrespectful to workers. The UAW members have been preparing for potential picketing, and Fain warned that a strike could be expected if negotiations don’t improve.
The companies responded to the situation differently. Ford expressed a willingness to collaborate on innovative solutions for the rapidly changing industry, while GM maintained that it is bargaining in good faith. Stellantis had yet to respond to requests for comments at the time of reporting. The UAW’s aims include regaining benefits lost in previous negotiations and securing a substantial wage increase of at least 40% over the contract’s term.
(Source: Will Feuer | WSJ)
