President Joe Biden announced today that he will join the United Auto Workers (UAW) strike in solidarity with the workers who are demanding better wages and benefits from the automakers. Biden said that he supports the right of workers to organize and bargain collectively, and that he will stand with them until they get a fair deal.
“Tuesday, I’ll go to Michigan to join the picket line and stand in solidarity with the men and women of UAW as they fight for a fair share of the value they helped create,” Biden wrote on X, the platform previously known as Twitter.
It’s time we start rewarding work, not just wealth. America's workers deserve better. I’m proud to stand in solidarity with @UAW. pic.twitter.com/QgN1792VQq
— Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) September 23, 2019
The UAW strike, which began on September 15, has affected more than 50,000 workers across 31 plants in 10 states. The workers are asking for higher pay, improved health care, more job security, and a greater share of the company’s profits. The automakers, however, have argued that they need to cut costs and increase flexibility to compete in the global market.
Biden said that he hopes that both sides can reach an agreement soon, but that he will not hesitate to use his executive power to intervene if necessary. He also urged Congress to pass the PRO Act, a bill that would strengthen labor rights and protections for workers. Biden said that he believes that a strong and vibrant labor movement is essential for the economic recovery and prosperity of the country.
President Biden’s decision to stand alongside the striking workers represents the most significant display of union solidarity ever by a sitting president. Biden’s announcement comes a week after he expressed solidarity with the UAW and said he “understand[s] the workers’ frustration.”
