Biden Shows Support for US Striking Auto Workers in Michigan
During a historic visit to the picket line in Michigan, President Joe Biden expressed his backing for the striking car workers, marking the first time a sitting US president has done so.
Mr. Biden conveyed his belief that these workers “deserve” the raises and concessions they are demanding.
This visit coincided with the impending arrival of his potential rival, Donald Trump, a day later.
However, the workers expressed concerns, fearing that both political figures might exploit the strike for their own agendas and urged them to refrain from involvement.
In a brief address to the striking workers on Tuesday, President Biden emphasized, “You deserve the significant raise you need and other benefits.” He stressed that these workers should be thriving just as much as the companies they work for.
Yet, in the lead-up to the visit, some workers displayed reluctance. One worker stated, “We would much rather neither of them showed up. We don’t want to divide people, and introducing politics into the situation will only fuel arguments.”
While it’s not uncommon for US lawmakers and presidential candidates to show solidarity with American workers during strikes, a sitting president’s participation in such an event is unprecedented.
Earlier in September, the UAW (United Auto Workers) had initiated a strike targeting major car manufacturers, including Ford, General Motors, and Stellantis, advocating for improved pay and working conditions.
Notably, the White House, which had played a significant role in resolving a labor dispute with rail workers in 2022, remained uninvolved in the negotiations this time.
White House Press Secretary, Karine Jean-Pierre clarified that the administration refrained from taking a stance on the current UAW proposal, leaving it to the UAW and the major automakers.
President Biden’s presence in Michigan was primarily intended to express support for the car workers, with Ms. Jean-Pierre emphasizing the president’s belief that the men and women of the UAW deserve a fair share of the record profits they’ve contributed to creating.
