UAW Workers Attribute Job Losses to Biden, Harris and EV Mandates

Union Workers' Voting Preferences

While it's clear that union negotiator Shawn Fain from the UAW wants his workers to vote in a certain way, the actual voting behavior of the workers might tell a different story. This is mainly due to the fact that auto workers in Michigan are attributing job losses to Joe Biden, Kamala Harris and their electric vehicle (EV) mandates, as reported by the New York Post.

Stellantis Layoffs and Workers' Reactions

Following the announcement by Stellantis, the manufacturer of Chrysler, Jeep, and Dodge, to lay off 2,450 workers, the workers expressed their belief that the Biden administration was responsible. Isaiah Gordon, a worker in the hybrid batteries department, voiced his concerns about layoffs in the electric-vehicle departments. He criticized the government's decision to push for electric vehicles, pointing out that Ford has lost a significant amount of money as a result.

EVs and Job Losses

A technician mechanic for Chrysler agreed with Gordon's sentiments, stating that the production of electric motors, which requires less skill, was driving the layoffs. Republican congresswoman Lisa McClain echoed these views, stating that fewer parts in electric vehicles meant fewer employees, leading to layoffs. She criticized the government, particularly Kamala Harris, for mandating the purchase of vehicles that they were unable to sell.

Ford's Job Cuts and Losses

According to the New York Post, Ford cut over 1,000 jobs at its Rouge Electric Vehicle Center in Dearborn after reducing F-150 Lightning production. The company reported a loss of $132,000 per vehicle in the first quarter, selling 20% fewer EVs than last year. Workers attribute the layoffs not only to reduced labor but also to the tough emissions standards from the Biden-Harris administration. These strict EPA regulations are pushing the industry to produce more EVs, despite lower consumer demand.

Industry Complaints and Political Divide

Workers argue that the stringent emissions standards are unreasonable, citing the example of the Ford hybrid Escape, a hybrid electric vehicle, which has a carbon footprint significantly in excess of the standard. They also express frustration at the lack of investment in their workplaces. This dissatisfaction seems to be causing a political divide between the UAW and its leadership, with many workers feeling that the UAW is unwilling to engage with opposing viewpoints and is too closely aligned with the Democratic Party.

Bottom Line

The shift towards electric vehicles, driven by governmental mandates, appears to be causing significant job losses in the auto industry. Workers are blaming the Biden-Harris administration for these layoffs, citing stringent emissions standards and a lack of consumer demand for EVs. This situation is causing a political divide within the UAW, with many workers feeling that their union is not adequately representing their interests. What are your thoughts on this issue? Share this article with your friends and discuss it. Also, don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.