This is your UAW strike podcast, and this is the update for 10-16-2023.
In today’s segment, we delve into the ongoing saga of the UAW strike against major automakers. Here’s a summary of the significant occurrences from the past three days.
October 13 marked the expansion of the United Auto Workers strike against General Motors and Stellantis, extending to additional plants across Missouri, Ohio, and Michigan. As we step into the fifth week of the strike, over 45,000 workers remain idled. The core of the dispute revolves around demands for improved wages, benefits, and job security from the union, while the automakers seek concessions to counterbalance the rising costs associated with electric vehicles and other technological advancements.
On October 14, President Joe Biden voiced his support for the striking workers, encouraging both factions to forge a "fair and equitable" resolution. The day saw the UAW orchestrating a rally in Detroit, amplifying the call for a better deal from the automakers. A notable concession emerged from General Motors, who agreed to establish electric vehicle battery plants under a UAW contract. However, the union deemed the offer insufficient, vowing to continue the strike.
The narrative shifted slightly on October 15, with the UAW declaring a pause on further strike expansions following GM’s concession. The union acknowledged "significant progress" in the discussions with GM and Stellantis, albeit with more ground to cover. Meanwhile, Ford, untouched by the strike thus far, announced its readiness to negotiate with the UAW upon the expiration of its contract in December.

The ongoing UAW strike, now stretching into its fifth week, casts a long shadow over the auto industry. The production cutbacks and idled plants at GM and Stellantis are bleeding millions daily from the companies’ coffers. The union, despite facing financial strains, remains steadfast in securing a favorable deal for its members, against the backdrop of soaring living costs and robust profits reported by the automakers.
The road to resolution remains shrouded in uncertainty, with substantial pressure mounted on both camps to arrive at a compromise. The Biden administration continues to play a close hand in the negotiations, urging a fair deal to assuage all parties involved.
That wraps up the major unfolds and events from October 13 to 16 concerning the UAW strike.
Please subscribe and never miss a UAW update.
If you like this podcast check out the Google on Trial on SBF on trial podcast.