TL/DR –
The United Auto Workers (UAW) union has been working to reassert its political power in Michigan, though the union’s membership is divided over which political party best represents their interests. This division stems from past corruption scandals, decreased membership, and issues of transparency. The UAW hopes ongoing efforts towards better leadership and an active election campaign will translate into support for its endorsed candidates.
UAW Seeks to Reassert Political Clout Amidst Membership Divide
While mowing his lawn in Shelby Township, Michigan, retired union member Walter Usakowski was approached by United Auto Workers (UAW) canvassers. As a lifelong Democrat, Usakowski needed no convincing. But he’s uncertain about other Ford Motor Co. workers backing Democratic candidates in the Nov. 3 midterms.
In a key political battleground, the UAW is trying to reestablish its political power while juggling between divided member interests and past corruption scandals. The membership is split over which party best caters to working-class needs.
Macomb County, which saw a significant Trump win in 2024, was recently visited by UAW members. While most union members expressed concern about the cost of living, they disagreed on which party would best address it.
Union voters remain politically divided, reflecting broader political rifts. Union members are traditionally Democratic-leaning, but Trump’s anti-elite rhetoric and promises to overhaul trade agreements appealed to them.
UAW President Shawn Fain, elected in 2023 on a transparency platform, has garnered member support through his victories in labor disputes. He recently won re-election, though the results are yet to be certified.
The UAW’s active and retired members in Michigan have dropped from over 600,000 in the 1980s to around 350,000 today. Still, UAW remains the state’s largest union, optimistic about improved, transparent leadership and hoping for a successful election campaign drive.
The UAW has staunchly backed Democratic senatorial candidate Abdul El-Sayed. His Republican opponent, former U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers, opposes federal regulations under President Biden requiring automakers to increase electric vehicle production.
Robert Bruno, a professor at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, emphasizes that the UAW’s strength lies in its ability to mobilize voters. To that end, the union is actively canvassing and contacting voters before Election Day.
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