Factory workers for the Big Three American automakers — Ford, General Motors and Stellantis — went on strike at selected plants Friday as negotiations with corporate leadership reached a standstill.
The United Auto Workers union is seeking a 40% wage increase over the next four years, something union leaders said matches similar raises that company executives have received. The union is also seeking the reinstatement of pensions and other retirement benefits.
Company leaders have said they can’t afford to meet all the union’s demands, especially as they make expensive investments to boost production of electric vehicles.
The strike so far affects just three factories — one for each company — but union leaders said the job action may expand if progress is not made at the bargaining table.
