The administration sends officials to facilitate progress toward an agreement.
The United Auto Workers, the largest union in the nation, began a strike at midnight Friday against America’s Big Three automakers. More than 150,000 workers at General Motors, Ford, and Stellaris, the company that took over Chrysler, are going on strategically targeted work stoppages at the major plants, UAW President Shawn Fain said.
The union is seeking a 35 percent pay increase over the next four years, which could bring hourly wages to as much as $43.52 per hour. The workers are also seeking a four-day work week, but pay for 40 hours when only working 32.
“Our members are working 60, 70, even 80 hours a week just to make ends meet. That’s not living. It’s barely surviving and it needs to stop,” the union president said,
The strike will put pressure on the nation’s economy with increased prices and, depending on how long the strike lasts, diminished availability.
President Joe Biden said, “Let’s be clear; no one wants a strike. But I respect workers’ right to use their options under the collective bargaining system.”
President Biden’s office indicated that the White House Economic Advisor and Acting Labor Secretary will be dispatched in support of both sides in hopes of reaching a win-win agreement.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For the president and administration officials as they seek to support the American economy.
- For Chair Jared Bernstein and the members of the White House Council of Economic Advisors.
- For Acting Secretary Julie Su as she oversees the Labor Department and facilitates union talks.
Sources: Washington Examiner, Wall Street Journal, NBC News
