UAW strikes expand as 7,000 more workers join picket line at two plants
AP reported that Union President Shawn Fain told workers in a video appearance that the strikes were escalated because Ford and GM refused “to make meaningful progress" in contract talks. Jeep maker Stellantis was spared from the third round of strikes. Also Read: United Auto Workers present new counter-proposal to Chrysler parent Stellantis ahead of planned strike Ford and GM responded strongly as tensions in the verbal dispute with the union escalated further.
Ford alleged that the UAW was delaying an agreement primarily due to the matter of union representation at electric vehicle battery facilities, many of which are partnerships with a Korean manufacturer. “We still have time to reach an agreement and avert a real disaster," Ford CEO Jim Farley said. The company said the work stoppages are starting to affect fragile companies that make parts for the factories on strike.
General Motors CEO Mary Barra blamed union leaders for the impasse. “UAW leadership continues to expand the strike while upping the rhetoric and the theatrics. It’s clear that there is no real intent to get to an agreement," Barra said in a statement, reported AP.
“The GM plant in Delta Township, near Lansing, makes large crossover SUVs such as the Chevrolet Traverse and Buick Enclave. A nearby metal parts stamping plant will remain open", Fain said. The Ford factory in Chicago is responsible for manufacturing the Ford Explorer, Explorer Police Interceptors, and the Lincoln Aviator SUV.
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