The United Auto Workers made history when Volkswagen employees in Chattanooga, Tennessee, decided to overwhelmingly vote to join the union. This marked a significant milestone for the UAW, as it was the first successful organizing drive of an automaker outside of Detroit’s Big Three. The union organizing passed with an impressive 73% of the vote, representing 2,628 workers in support of the UAW out of the more than 4,300 eligible VW workers who participated in the election.
Despite the resounding victory, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) still needs to certify the result. However, barring any unexpected issues or challenges, Volkswagen will be required to bargain in good faith with the union. This process may involve direct talks between the two parties or could go through a mediator. VW acknowledged the UAW’s win in a brief statement but refrained from offering further comment.
The successful organizing drive at Volkswagen’s Chattanooga plant is expected to serve as a launching point for the UAW as it embarks on an unprecedented organizing campaign involving 13 automakers across the United States. This victory comes on the heels of major contract wins last year with General Motors, Ford Motor, and Chrysler parent Stellantis, which included significant wage increases, the reinstatement of cost-of-living adjustments, and other benefits for union members.
The UAW’s victory has not gone unnoticed, with six Republican governors of Southern states, including Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee, releasing a joint statement condemning the union’s efforts to organize within their states. The governors expressed concerns about the potential impact of unionization on job security, citing recent layoffs announced by UAW-affiliated automakers. Nonetheless, the UAW remains undeterred in its mission to expand its reach and influence in the auto manufacturing industry.
Looking ahead, the UAW’s focus will shift towards negotiating with Volkswagen and preparing for an anticipated organizing vote of Mercedes-Benz workers at an SUV plant in Vance, Alabama. With a formal election scheduled to take place from May 13 through May 17, the UAW is gearing up for another opportunity to grow its membership base. UAW President Shawn Fain has expressed confidence in the union’s ability to continue expanding beyond the traditional Big Three automakers, setting ambitious goals for the future.