The US auto workers union extended its strike against two of Detroit's "Big Three" on Friday, and President Joe Biden signaled his intention to join the picket line in support of the workers or, some say, in aid of his reelection.

At noon on Friday, 5,600 United Auto Workers union members joined the spectacular worker walkout from the previous week by leaving 38 US parts and distribution centers owned by General Motors and Stellantis.

Although the UAW has portrayed its campaign as an effort to level the playing field economically for the working class, Friday's events also highlighted the high political stakes, as Biden's visit occurred only one day before a tour by Republican candidate Donald Trump was scheduled.

UAW President Shawn Fain stated that the next action would affect 20 states and target Stellantis and General Motors facilities, with whom negotiations had broken down.

In a conference, Fain stated, "We're not going to wait around forever for fair contracts at the Big Three."

Fain said that because of advancements in the company's negotiations, Ford will escape the most recent strike escalation.

Biden was invited by Fain to join the picket line, telling him that the best way he could help was by strengthening their movement and demonstrating to the corporations that the public supports them.

By dusk, the president had revealed his scheme on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Tuesday, Biden said, "I'll travel to Michigan to join the picket line and show my support for the UAW's men and women as they struggle for a fair share of the value they helped create." "It's time for a win-win deal that keeps UAW jobs paying well and American auto manufacturing thriving."

Trump, too

The trip will be the US president's most recent to the heart of the car industry in America. Alongside GM CEO Mary Barra, Ford CEO Jim Farley, and other leaders, he has attended the 2022 Detroit Auto Show and significant project unveilings.

In an effort to win over working-class voters, former president Trump had planned to visit Michigan the day before Biden's trip.

Fain claimed that by bringing back a cost-of-living factor that had been discontinued in 2009, Ford had enhanced earlier ideas.

Additionally, the corporation provided a better profit-sharing program, the immediate promotion of temporary workers to full-time status, and the union's right to go on strike in protest of plant closures.

Fain asserted, "We're not done at Ford," adding that the business was "serious about reaching a deal."

With AFP