We know talking about politics is a somewhat risky issue anywhere, especially online, but we gotta give some credit to President Joe Biden during the current United Auto Workers (UAW) union strike. Making history as the first sitting U.S. president to join a picket line, Biden joined workers on strike at a General Motors parts depot to not show his support for the 12th day of the strike against the Detroit 3. He also shared a statement that makes perfect sense, and honestly, it’s about time someone in power said something.

“You deserve what you’ve earned, and you’ve earned a hell of a lot more than what you’re getting paid now… [automakers have been doing incredibly well], and you should be doing incredibly well, too.” – Biden

Here, here! We’re all tired of hearing about directors and CEOs who make millions of dollars while paying workers $10 an hour. It’s absolutely ludicrous that this seems okay, and people are starting to fight back. “Anti-work” is a movement getting stronger every day, backed by the “Great Resignation,” “Quiet Quitting,” and of course, the current strikes in the auto industry and writer's strike. Hard-working people have had enough.

UAW President Shawn Fain also made a strong statement about the war against corporate greed. We, the people, are the ones responsible for making the industry profitable, and once workers rise up and stop working, the industry will suffer. Biden also agreed that workers deserved a 40-percent raise, claiming it’s entirely reasonable to negotiate for that. A round of applause, please.

Automakers are shaking now, and the strike might not have to go on as long as previously thought. Stellantis is ready to sign a record contract to provide good jobs, relying on the collaboration between management and labor to ensure victory in the future of the industry and the changing market. Ford is reluctant to accept outside help, a little too stubborn, claiming it wants to bargain for a deal that is fair to its employees while keeping enough money in their pockets to invest and grow. General Motors wants to find a solution that rewards the workforce while keeping the automaker in a position to keep production going.

Of course, there is going to be some contradiction. While a member of the Democratic party is going up to bat for union workers, former President Donald Trump is expected to visit a nonunion shop later this week. Sure, it brings more attention to the strike, but it’s not a good look. A nonunion shop is an employer that refuses to recognize labor unions and excludes from employment anyone affiliated with a labor union. Wow.

Who knew the UAW union strike would get so much attention? It only started on September 15, 2023, and it’s not the first time this happened. Back in 2019, the UAW union went on strike, and that lasted for 40 days. It’s unclear how long this one will last, but picketers are refusing to back down. Heck, they’re even throwing a tailgate party at the picket line with a grill and a cooler full of snacks. They’re here to stand up against corporate America and show no sign of weakening their stance any time soon.

Consumers may still be affected by the union strike in terms of product supply, but you can still join the discussion. Share your thoughts with us on NowCar social media.

Photo Source/Copyright: Stellantis, Ford, General Motors