For the first time in history, a sitting U.S. President met with workers on an active picket line.
President Joe Biden visited a GM parts and distribution center in Michigan, where he met with UAW members who were on strike, expressing support for organized labor. He made remarks praising the UAW for its role in saving the auto industry in 2008 and advocated for better wages and benefits for workers. Meanwhile, negotiations between the UAW and automakers, including Ford, Stellantis, and General Motors, are ongoing, with disputes over issues like battery plant jobs and wage scales. The automakers argue they need to remain competitive in the electric vehicle market. President Biden’s visit is a clear effort to show of support for the UAW as they press contract negotiations with the Big 3. The UAW has thus far not endorsed Biden as he runs for relection in 2024.
Highlights
- 🗣️ He praised the UAW for saving the auto industry in 2008 and advocated for better wages and benefits.
- 🚗 Ongoing negotiations between UAW and automakers, including Ford, Stellantis, and General Motors.
- ⚡ Automakers seek to remain competitive in the electric vehicle market.
- 💰 Disputes over issues like battery plant jobs and wage scales continue.
