The Big Three automakers stalled production and moved parts out of plants across the country ahead of the strike, according to rank-and-file UAW members.
The strategy the UAW is currently employing is led by the union’s new militant president, Shawn Fain. He was elected in March after the UAW changed its election process from a delegate system to one member, one vote in the most recent leadership election. He has assumed a new posture for the union’s leadership: for example, refusing to endorse Joe Biden for president until he supports the UAW’s efforts to unionize electric vehicle facilities, and rejecting a ceremonial handshake with auto manufacturer bosses before the start of contract negotiations.
In the critical swing state of Michigan, where tens of thousands of UAW members work, the union holds an outsized influence over state politics and, in turn, nationwide races. That means union support will be crucial for Biden’s reelection chances in 2024. Capitalizing on the Biden administration’s tepid support for the UAW strike, Donald Trump announced he would speak to autoworkers this month, drawing condemnation from Fain.
So fucking good. Need this militant take in the labor movement to spread like wildfire.
My only question is, if not supporting Biden what would they then suggest? Not voting? Because voting for the other guy, you may as well disband your union now
You understand what an endorsement is right?
Political power is not maintained by just giving it away in return for nothing, i.e. the union loses power by just endorsing Biden without Biden showing his support of the union.
Any organization should withhold endorsements if neither candidate represents their best interests. That is a strong indication that the political parties need to run better candidates. That kind of political pressure isn’t as prevalent as it needs to be and I am happy to see UAW applying it.
