United Auto Workers Strike Against Detroit Three Automakers Enters Second Day

September 16, 2023

The United Auto Workers (UAW) strike against General Motors, Ford, and Stellantis entered its second day on Friday, with no resolution in sight. The strike is the first time in over 50 years that the UAW has walked out on all three automakers at the same time.

The union is demanding better pay, benefits, and job security. The automakers have offered some concessions, but the UAW has said that they are not enough.

The strike is having a significant impact on the auto industry. GM, Ford, and Stellantis have all idled production at several plants, and the strike is expected to cost the automakers billions of dollars.

The strike is also having an impact on workers and their families. The UAW is paying striking workers $500 per week and covering the cost of their health insurance premiums, but this is significantly less than what they would earn if they were working.

The strike is likely to continue until the UAW and the automakers reach a new contract agreement. It is unclear how long this will take, but the strike is already having a major impact on the auto industry and the workers who rely on it.

What does this mean for consumers?

The strike could lead to higher car prices and longer wait times for new vehicles. The automakers may also be forced to cut production, which could lead to job losses in the supply chain.

Consumers who are planning to buy a new car in the near future should be prepared to pay more and wait longer. They should also consider buying a used car instead.

What can consumers do to help?

Consumers can support the UAW and its members by signing petitions, donating to the union’s strike fund, and contacting their elected officials to urge them to support the union.

Consumers can also show their support by buying products from union-made companies. The UAW has a website where consumers can find a list of union-made products.

Action on strike by president?

President Joe Biden has not taken any strike action during his presidency. However, he has expressed support for the right of workers to strike, and he has called for the passage of the PRO Act, which would make it easier for workers to unionize and strike.

In a speech to the AFL-CIO in May 2021, Biden said, “I support the right of workers to organize and bargain collectively, and to strike when necessary to protect their rights.” He also said that the PRO Act is “essential” to ensuring that workers have a voice in their workplaces.

The PRO Act has passed the House of Representatives, but it has been stalled in the Senate. Biden has urged the Senate to pass the bill, and he has said that he will sign it into law if it reaches his desk.

The PRO Act is a controversial piece of legislation, and it is opposed by business groups and Republicans. However, Biden has said that he is committed to passing the bill, and he has called on his supporters to contact their senators and urge them to support it.

It is important to note that Biden has not taken any strike action during his presidency. However, he has expressed support for the right of workers to strike, and he has called for the passage of the PRO Act, which would make it easier for workers to unionize and strike.

What are workers’ top demands?

Fain has promoted the union’s “ambitious” push for more generous wages and benefits.

The UAW is seeking a 40% wage hike over four years (amounting to 46% compounded), along with cost-of-living increases; beefed-up retirement benefits, including pensions on par with what autoworkers previously received; and full pay for a shortened 32-hour workweek, down from 40.