President Joe Biden is set to make a historic visit to Michigan, where he will join members of the United Auto Workers (UAW) union on the picket line. This move comes in response to mounting political pressure for Biden to publicly support the union members.
The timing of Biden’s visit is noteworthy as it coincides with former President Donald Trump’s scheduled speech to current and former union members, including UAW members, in Detroit. The UAW, however, has not yet endorsed Biden for reelection, as union members have been increasingly drawn towards Republican candidates.
UAW President Shawn Fain took a public stance against Trump’s trip to Michigan, and this visit by Biden marks a significant departure from the actions of previous presidents who avoided intervening in union disputes. Their motivation for doing so was to steer clear of taking sides.
While Fain had previously criticized Biden’s administration’s support for the transition to electric vehicles, their perspective seems to have shifted after a meeting with the president. Fain has become less critical since the encounter, which may have influenced Biden’s decision to support the UAW by joining the picket line.
Not only is Biden responding to political pressure, but he is also receiving encouragement from fellow Democrats. Representative Ro Khanna, among others, has been urging Biden to demonstrate his support for the working class by standing with the UAW members.
President Biden’s visit to Michigan and his active engagement with the UAW demonstrate a renewed commitment to the labor movement. By breaking away from the traditional avoidance of union disputes, Biden is setting a new precedent for presidents to come. As the UAW continues to grapple with its endorsement decisions, Biden’s public display of solidarity could have significant political implications.
