In a significant development, the United Auto Workers (UAW) union endorsed President Joe Biden on Wednesday. The endorsement, announced at the union’s conference in Washington, DC, is a crucial gain for the president as he pivots towards the general election.
“I kept my commitment to be the most pro-union president ever,” Biden said. “I’m proud you have my back. Let me just say I’m honored to have your back, and you have mine.”
The endorsement comes amidst signs that former President Donald Trump is likely to be the Republican presidential nominee. The relationship between the president and the union leadership has been a long-standing one, but the endorsement may not necessarily sway all rank-and-file members.
UAW President’s Remarks
Before endorsing Biden, UAW President Shawn Fain emphasized that the choice union workers face in 2024 is about securing power for the working class. He criticized Trump, stating, “Donald Trump is a scab,” and “Donald Trump stands against everything we stand for as a union – as a society.”
According to Fain, the choice between Trump and Biden is clear. “Joe Biden bet on the American worker while Donald Trump blamed the American workers,” he said. “So if our endorsement must be earned, Joe Biden has earned it.”
Union’s Stance on Key Issues
Despite the endorsement, the union does not align with the president on every issue. In December, UAW called for a ceasefire in Israel and Gaza, a move that Biden has resisted. This difference briefly surfaced during his speech when a member of the audience demanded a ceasefire.
Impact on Battleground State
The endorsement could influence the battleground state of Michigan in November. Both Biden and Trump, should he secure his party’s nomination, are vying to be the champion of the working class. The UAW, with over 400,000 members, mostly in Michigan, could play a significant role.
Union’s Previous Concerns
Last year, the UAW declined to endorse Biden’s re-election campaign ahead of high-stakes contract negotiations, citing concerns over policies encouraging a transition to electric vehicles. However, Biden, who has often relied on union support, has consistently praised American autoworkers as “the most skilled autoworkers in the world.”
Trump’s Support Among Rank-and-File
Despite strong criticisms from Fain and consistent support for Democratic candidates from union leadership, Trump has found support among the rank-and-file of the UAW. Fain has previously stated that he believes the former president has never truly supported UAW members.
This story will be updated with further developments.