I agree with you. I used to be an organizer myself, so my allegiance is unequivocal. Organized labor is effective when both sides are engaged in honest negotiations. It looks like that is happening here, and there will be a good contract for everybody eventually.
As much as I like President Biden and all that he has accomplished so far, the decision to walk the picket line seems to be a bit much. I am also concerned that the decision to create this photo opportunity was made in direct reaction to another political candidate.
Like Doug, I, too, am thinking that Pres. Biden's joining the picket line is largely (entirely?) in response to TFG's planned appearance in Detroit. Seems to me that there are two not great choices for Biden: Not show up and let TFG make hay with the union about Biden's not caring and not being for the union workers, blah blah blah, or show up to not let TFG have all the union/political thunder. Either way, it's just ugly. I appreciate your thoughts on the matter and am glad to see that the union and Ford look like they're coming to an agreement. Hope that happens VERY soon and that the other contracts then fall in line, and then we can move on (Biden, too).
I agree -- it feels like a reactive step, and one that isn't being thought through. I was thinking back to how Obama handled the auto rescue. He made it very clear that he supported the UAW but that sacrifices would have to be shared across the board. That's the kind of balance Biden can aim for, too.
I agree with you. I used to be an organizer myself, so my allegiance is unequivocal. Organized labor is effective when both sides are engaged in honest negotiations. It looks like that is happening here, and there will be a good contract for everybody eventually.
As much as I like President Biden and all that he has accomplished so far, the decision to walk the picket line seems to be a bit much. I am also concerned that the decision to create this photo opportunity was made in direct reaction to another political candidate.
Your analysis seems spot on, as usual!
Thanks Doug! I know I am out on a Limb, but it’s important to say it.
Like Doug, I, too, am thinking that Pres. Biden's joining the picket line is largely (entirely?) in response to TFG's planned appearance in Detroit. Seems to me that there are two not great choices for Biden: Not show up and let TFG make hay with the union about Biden's not caring and not being for the union workers, blah blah blah, or show up to not let TFG have all the union/political thunder. Either way, it's just ugly. I appreciate your thoughts on the matter and am glad to see that the union and Ford look like they're coming to an agreement. Hope that happens VERY soon and that the other contracts then fall in line, and then we can move on (Biden, too).
I agree -- it feels like a reactive step, and one that isn't being thought through. I was thinking back to how Obama handled the auto rescue. He made it very clear that he supported the UAW but that sacrifices would have to be shared across the board. That's the kind of balance Biden can aim for, too.
Agreed.