(WBBM NEWSRADIO/AP) – Unionized Ford Motor Company workers in Chicago are waiting for word from their local leader about the status of potential strikes by United Auto Workers against three U.S. automakers.
“My phone has not stopped blowing up for two weeks straight now,” says Chris Pena, president of UAW Local 551, which represents workers at Ford’s Chicago AUAW chief says offers from Detroit companies are inadequate, says union is ready to go on strike
With just over 24 hours left before a strike deadline, United Auto Workers President Shawn Fain on Wednesday said offers from the companies aren't enough.
In an online address to members, Fain said General Motors, Ford and Stellantis have raised their initial wage offers, but have rejected some of the union's other demands.
"We do not yet have offers on the table that reflect the sacrifices and contributions our members have made to these companies," he said. "To win we're likely going to have to take action. We are preparing to strike these companies in a way they've never seen before."
The union was threatening to strike after contracts with companies that haven't reached an agreement by 11:59 p.m. on Thursday. It would be the first time in the union's 80-plus-year history that it struck all three companies at the same time.
Contributing: The Associated Press
Listen to our new podcast Looped In: Chicago
Listen to WBBM Newsradio now on Audacy!
Sign up and follow WBBM Newsradio
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram