Ford CEO Jim Farley isn’t the only one attacking the UAW as his GM counterpart has said the union is “upping the rhetoric and the theatrics,” despite not having any “real intent to get to an agreement.”
In a scathing statement, GM CEO Mary Barra said “Since negotiations started this summer, we’ve been available to bargain 24/7 on behalf of our represented team members and our company. They’ve demanded a record contract – and that’s exactly what we’ve offered for weeks now: a historic contract with record wage increases, record job security, and world-class healthcare.”
She added the offer “rewards our team members,” but does not put our company and jobs at risk. Barra went on to say “jeopardizing our future is something I will not do,” which suggests the automaker believes the union is asking for too much.
More: UAW Strike Expands To Hit Popular Ford And GM SUVs, Ford CEO Calls Move “Grossly Irresponsible”
While there can be simple disagreements during negotiations, GM appears to believe the union wanted to strike regardless of what was offered. As Barra explained, “By their own admission, the UAW leadership’s plan from the beginning has been to drag their membership into a long, unnecessary strike to further their own personal and political agendas. Their leaked text messages from last week stated their plan to keep us ‘wounded for months’ and cause ‘recurring reputations [sic] damage and operational chaos.’”
The executive went on to claim that UAW President Shawn Fain “wants to make history for himself.” Barra added, “Serious bargaining happens at the table, not in public, with two parties who are willing to roll up their sleeves to get a deal done.” This is effectively telling Fain to stop worrying about TV appearances and focus on the task at hand.
Barra ended by saying, “We need the UAW leadership at the bargaining table with the clear intent of reaching an agreement now.” She said anything else puts “our collective future at stake.” She also claimed the UAW’s decision to fight with Ford, GM, and Stellantis at the same time is a “strategy that ultimately only helps the non-union competition.”
Barra’s anger is understandable as the UAW is striking at Lansing Delta Township Assembly, which builds the Buick Enclave and Chevrolet Traverse. Union members are also striking at numerous parts distribution centers and Wentzville Assembly, which makes the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon.
