SUMMARY
- Biden joins UAW strikers, advocating for a substantial wage increase.
- Historic move seen as unparalleled in U.S. labor history.
- Union’s loyalty swings in balance as elections approach.
President Joe Biden joined United Auto Workers (UAW) on their strike in Michigan, becoming the first sitting president to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with picketing workers. At a warehouse located to the west of Detroit, where the strike had been ongoing for 12 days, Biden enthusiastically declared their need for a significant pay hike.
As he navigated the crowd at the General Motors warehouse, Biden met with several autoworkers, offering handshakes and words of encouragement. When quizzed about the union's demand for a 40% wage increment, Biden didn't hesitate to voice his agreement. The president didn't shy away from commenting on the substantial earnings of auto companies, suggesting that their workers should also reap comparable benefits.
Shawn Fain, the UAW President, expressed gratitude for Biden's direct involvement, emphasizing the president's commitment to the working class. Fain passionately pointed out that the day belonged to the hardworking autoworkers, underscoring the importance of their roles.
Erik Loomis, a recognized authority on U.S. labor history, described Biden's participation as truly unparalleled, noting that previous presidents typically refrained from direct involvement in strikes. The White House explained Biden's bold move as a strategy to guarantee that future automobiles will be crafted in the U.S. by well-compensated unionized American workers, as opposed to overseas production.
This unique moment arrived just a day before former president Donald Trump's planned visit to the same Michigan picket lines. With the upcoming presidential elections in the backdrop, the allegiance of the UAW is up in the air. The union has reservations about both Trump and Biden, making it a waiting game to see where their support will land.
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