Former Vice President Mike Pence has stated that the Biden administration’s push toward electric vehicles is to blame for the historic United Auto Workers strikes that have taken place at General Motors, Ford Motor, and Stellantis. Around 12,700 UAW members went on strike after failing to reach an agreement on new labor contracts. Pence argues that the strike is a reflection of the failed economic policies of the Biden administration and that the move toward electric vehicles is not in the long-term interest of auto workers.
Pence’s remarks echo the views of his former boss, former President Donald Trump, who is currently the frontrunner in the Republican presidential nomination contest. Trump plans to travel to Detroit to speak with current and former union members, counterprogramming next week’s GOP primary debate.
The main demands of the UAW are to obtain more equitable compensation. The union has threatened additional strikes if both sides do not make serious progress in negotiations by mid-day Friday.
One of the key points of contention is the Biden administration’s push toward electric vehicles as part of its climate agenda. Trump argues that electric cars will be made in China and will harm American auto workers. The union, which has yet to endorse Biden, has concerns about the transition to electric vehicles. UAW President Shawn Fain criticized Trump’s plan to visit Detroit, stating that the union is focused on fighting against the billionaire class and an economy that enriches people like Trump at the expense of workers.
Sources:
– CNBC: https://www.cnbc.com/2023/09/19/pence-blames-biden-electric-vehicle-agenda-for-uaw-strikes.html
– NBC News: https://www.nbcnews.com/meet-the-press/meet-press-september-19-2023-n1279498