05/30/2026
I'm a former member of the IBEW Local 58 - Detroit (thanks Detroit PBS!), and a vested member of the AFT-AFLCIO (thanks New York University!). I know from personal experience that unions protect workers on the job and in retirement. This is why I'm supporting the hardworking hourly workers of UAW Region 1-D Local 2093. Their contract with the automotive supplier American Axle (in Three Rivers) expires on Sunday, May 30. They've negotiated in good faith. After almost 20 years of serious pay cuts and concessions to keep the business afloat, workers are seeking to recoup their losses and look toward a future that isn't a struggle for basic needs. Over the last decade, American Axle & Mfg has enjoyed over $8 billion in profit and its CEO salary is well over a $100 million. It shouldn't be difficult for them to ensure that the people who keep them in business earn a true living wage, are entitled to affordable healthcare, and can look forward to a reasonable retirement. I'm hoping American Axle (aka Dauch) understands that workforce pride reflects on a business and negotiates a fair contract. Let's hope for good news on Sunday. I'm thankful to be a member of the House Labor Caucus and keep informed about worker issues and advocate for workers throughout Michigan.
Axles are to vehicles what joints are to human bodies: the mechanism that facilitates movement. For parts worker Rosie Dodge, who has worked on a paint line for American Axle & Manufacturing for 10 years, the metaphor is embodied in the work environment. “They just do not treat us like people,” ...