President Joe Biden has announced his plan to join United Auto Workers (UAW) strikers in Michigan on September 26th to show his support for the union's ongoing strike against the Big Three automakers. This endorsement comes at a crucial time for labor unions in the United States.
In a statement made on X (formerly known as Twitter) late Friday, President Biden wrote, "On Tuesday, I'll go to Michigan to join the picket line and stand in solidarity with the men and women of UAW as they fight for a fair share of the value they helped create."
The UAW is advocating for several key demands. Firstly, they are calling for an expansion of pension eligibility, wanting more workers to qualify for pensions. Additionally, the union is pushing for a 40% salary increase over the duration of the next contract, along with other benefits for workers. The UAW has justified these demands by pointing out the auto companies' robust profits and significant pay raises for executives.
President Biden's announcement came shortly after the UAW expanded its strike on September 22nd. More than 5,000 employees walked off the job at 38 distribution centers owned by General Motors (ticker: GM) and Stellantis (STLA). UAW President Shawn Fain stated in a livestream that they are not striking at additional Ford (F) facilities because progress has been made with that company.
This development marks a critical moment in the ongoing negotiations between labor unions and the auto industry. By joining the picket line, President Biden aims to convey his unwavering support for UAW workers and their fight for fair treatment and financial security.
Auto Workers' Strike Expands as Hollywood Writers Strike Sees Negotiation Progress
Negotiations in the Hollywood writers strike have recently gained momentum, while the auto workers' strike continues to expand. Members of the Writers Guild of America recently engaged in three days of negotiations with the leaders of Hollywood's major studios. However, it remains uncertain when a settlement will be reached. Notably, top Democratic officials, including California Gov. Gavin Newsom, have offered their assistance in brokering a deal.
Political Support in Union Rallies
It is common for politicians to appear at and engage with union rallies as they strive to secure labor's support. In the 2020 election, about six in 10 union members cast their votes for President Biden, according to Associated Press' Vote Cast data. While the UAW has not formally endorsed Biden's re-election campaign, there is an open invitation for him to join the picket line during his livestream on Friday.
Former President Trump's Involvement
Former President Donald Trump is also expected to visit Michigan on September 30, following Biden's appearance, to show his support for UAW members. In a Friday night post on the social media platform Truth Social, Trump suggested that Biden copied his idea.
Political Figures Joining the Workers' Cause
Notably, Senator Bernie Sanders (D-Vt.) stood in solidarity with striking UAW workers at a rally in Detroit on September 15. Additionally, Senator John Fetterman (D-Pa.) joined workers outside the Ford Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, Michigan on September 16.
Stellantis and GM Respond to Strike Expansion
Stellantis recently announced its response to the strike expansion, emphasizing the competitiveness of its offers. The company has proposed a cumulative total pay increase of 20%, highlighting its commitment to its employees. However, GM expressed its view that the strike expansion was unnecessary.
