The United Auto Workers (UAW) union endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris for US president on Wednesday, marking a significant boost for Harris as her campaign gains momentum in the crucial swing state of Michigan. This endorsement follows the UAW’s earlier support for President Joe Biden’s reelection bid, which was rescinded when Biden withdrew from the race on July 21.
UAW President Shawn Fain, who had a phone conversation with Harris last week, commended her track record of supporting the working class and her commitment to battling corporate greed. The endorsement reflects the union’s confidence in Harris to champion workers’ rights and economic fairness. “Kamala Harris has a proven record of standing shoulder to shoulder with us in our fight against corporate greed,” Fain said in a statement.
The UAW, which boasts a membership of 370,000 and is headquartered in Michigan, played a pivotal role in supporting Biden during his previous campaign. Both Biden and former President Donald Trump have actively campaigned in Michigan, making it a key battleground state. Harris is scheduled to rally with UAW members in Detroit on August 7, further solidifying her connection with the union.
The endorsement comes amid a narrowing race between Harris and Trump. A recent Reuters/Ipsos poll showed Harris with a narrow one-percentage-point lead over Trump, indicating a tightening contest since Biden’s withdrawal. Before Biden exited the race, the UAW’s executive board had expressed concerns about his ability to compete effectively against Trump.
Fain has been vocal in his criticism of Trump, labeling a potential Trump presidency as “a complete disaster for the working class.” Trump has responded by attacking Fain, calling for his dismissal and criticising the UAW’s handling of international competition.
While the UAW has traditionally backed Democratic candidates, its endorsement of Harris underscores a deepening relationship forged with Biden’s administration. Biden notably became the first sitting president to join a picket line in Detroit during a six-week strike last year, leading to significant labor victories, including a 25% wage increase and the reinstatement of cost-of-living adjustments.
Other unions, such as the Teamsters, have yet to endorse Harris, although they have invited her to meet. Teamsters President Sean O’Brien, who spoke at the Republican National Convention, has not endorsed Trump.
In related news, Trump discussed his stance on electric vehicle policy at the National Association of Black Journalists conference in Chicago, revealing his opposition to widespread adoption of electric cars despite support from Tesla CEO Elon Musk.