He is receiving support from a key sector in the American workforce.
The United Auto Workers (UAW) union officially threw its support behind President Joe Biden during a conference in Washington, as announced by UAW President Shawn Fain. In a passionate speech, Fain emphasized that Biden had earned the endorsement through his demonstrated commitment to the union’s causes. Fain criticized former President Donald Trump, labeling him as a “scab” and highlighting what he perceived as a lack of support for union members.
President Biden, in his response, expressed gratitude for the endorsement and conveyed his belief in the significance of the American union movement. He praised the union for producing highly skilled workers and underscored its positive impact on job quality, product excellence, and overall economic growth.
Taking a swipe at his predecessor, Biden pointed to the challenges faced during Trump’s presidency, citing job losses and factory closures in the auto industry. In contrast, he highlighted achievements during his own term, stating the opening of 20 auto factories and the creation of over 250,000 auto jobs across the nation.
Biden’s unique approach to connecting with the working class was highlighted when he referenced his historic participation in a picket line last fall, becoming the first sitting president to join striking auto workers in Detroit, advocating for higher wages and cost-of-living increases.
The UAW’s endorsement carries significant political weight, particularly in Michigan, a crucial battleground state in the upcoming 2024 election. Biden narrowly secured Michigan in the previous cycle, and the union’s backing could influence voters in the region.
The broader context of union endorsements and their impact on political dynamics was explored, emphasizing the division among union members regarding support for Democrats and Republicans. Trump’s appeal to union voters who feel neglected by globalization and international trade has posed challenges for traditional Democratic alliances with unions.
While Biden has positioned himself as a pro-union president, there are dissenting voices within union ranks, particularly on issues like immigration and trade, where Trump’s stance resonates with some members. Despite endorsements from other major unions, including the AFL-CIO, a few, such as the Teamsters, the American Postal Workers Union, and the International Association of Fire Fighters, have not yet declared their support.
The timing of the UAW endorsement was noted, as it typically occurs later in the election cycle. Fain’s recent message to political leaders emphasized the union’s expectation of support for their causes in exchange for an endorsement.
