33 Democrat Senators Send Letter To Non-Union Automakers Urging 'Neutrality' to UAW Unionization
Thirty-three U.S. Senators sent a letter on behalf of the United Auto Workers (UAW) to the heads of the nation’s 13 non-union automakers urging them to remain “neutral” as the UAW tries to unionize their workers.
The letter (in full below) was sent to the heads of Tesla, Rivian, Lucid, BMW, Honda, Hyundai, Mazda, Mercedes, Nissan, Subaru, Toyota, Volkswagen, and Volvo Cars.
Citing accusations the UAW has leveled against certain automakers that the companies are acting “illegally to block unionization efforts,” the Senators go on to urge all of the auto executives to adopt so-called “neutrality agreements.”
“We therefore urge you to commit to implementation of a neutrality agreement at your manufacturing plants,” the senators state.
“A neutrality agreement solely consists of an employer agreeing not to engage in pre-election activities that influence workers freedom to form a union. Your commitment to neutrality would ensure that management does not pressure workers into voting against unionization or delaying the election process.”
“We believe a neutrality agreement is the bare minimum standard manufacturers should meet in respecting workers rights,” the Senators continued, “especially as companies receive and benefit from federal funds related to the electric vehicle transition.”
While it is unclear if the Senators were making a veiled threat on behalf of the union when they mention federal funds received in the transition to electric vehicles, the UAW is a major contributor to Democrats.
Here is the letter in full.
