Introduction

US President Joe Biden has called for a “win-win” contract between US automakers and industrialists to avert an impending strike.

Biden’s Statement

In a statement released on Monday, a month before the contracts signed by General Motors, Ford, and Stellantis with the auto workers union, Biden expressed his support for the transition to a clean energy future.

Biden emphasized that automakers should provide well-paying jobs, avoid plant closures, and treat shift workers fairly.

He added that the auto workers union has contributed to the creation of the American middle class, and as the industry transitions to new technologies, the union deserves a contract that preserves the middle class.

Union’s Demands

The auto workers’ union, led by newly elected President Sean Fein, has taken a hard line in negotiations with automakers. They are calling for massive wage increases, the restoration of cost-of-living benefits, and the elimination of duplication of workers’ benefits.

Possible Strike

It is likely that several car manufacturers will witness a strike in this sector this fall. The history of the Auto Workers Union is full of strikes, the most recent of which was General Motors in 2019.

Source

Source: AFP