The United Auto Workers announced their support for Kamala Harris, highlighting her commitment to workers and contrasting her with Donald Trump in the upcoming presidential election

In a significant move for the 2024 presidential race, the United Auto Workers (UAW) have officially endorsed Kamala Harris for president. The union’s executive board made the decision public on Wednesday, citing the Biden-Harris administration’s strong record of supporting labour rights and delivering benefits to the working class.

UAW President Shawn Fain underscored the importance of this endorsement in a press release, emphasizing the union’s goal to defeat Donald Trump and support Harris, who has demonstrated a consistent commitment to worker advocacy. “Our job in this election is to defeat Donald Trump and elect Kamala Harris to build on her proven track record of delivering for the working class,” Fain stated. He framed the election as a pivotal moment, contrasting Harris’s stance with Trump’s, whom he described as antagonistic to union values.

This endorsement comes after several other major unions, including the AFL-CIO, IBEW, and SEIU, expressed their support for Harris following President Joe Biden’s backing of his vice president. The UAW, however, took a more cautious approach, delaying its endorsement until it could gauge member sentiment. Fain had previously stated that the union would not rush its decision, ensuring it reflected the members’ interests.

The UAW highlighted Harris’s previous support for workers, noting her participation in a 2019 picket line with striking autoworkers. Her legislative record also reflects her commitment to workers’ rights; she has voted against trade deals like NAFTA and its successor, the USMCA, which have been criticized for harming American workers. Harris’s stance against corporate price-gouging and her efforts to address unfair trade practices were also pivotal in the UAW’s endorsement.

Harris is scheduled to visit Detroit on August 7, where she will rally with UAW members and Michigan voters. Her visit will include direct meetings with union members to discuss the challenges facing Michigan’s workforce. Fain emphasized the significance of Harris’s support for the union, stating, “This campaign is bringing together people from all walks of life, building a movement that can defeat Donald Trump at the ballot box. For our one million active and retired members, the choice is clear: We will elect Kamala Harris to be our next President this November.”

Analysis:

Political: The UAW’s endorsement of Kamala Harris marks a pivotal moment in the 2024 presidential race, especially considering the union’s historical influence and significant membership. The endorsement is not just a signal of Harris’s strong labour credentials but also a strategic move to consolidate support among working-class voters. By aligning with Harris, the UAW reinforces its commitment to a candidate who promises to continue the Biden administration’s labour-friendly policies, which could sway undecided voters who prioritize worker issues.

Social: The endorsement underscores the growing alignment between major labour organizations and political figures who advocate for worker rights. Harris’s engagement with the UAW reflects her broader appeal to the working class and her active role in addressing labor concerns. This support also highlights the social dynamics at play, as unions continue to champion candidates who demonstrate a commitment to addressing economic inequality and corporate practices that affect workers’ livelihoods.

Racial: Kamala Harris’s endorsement by the UAW also touches on racial dynamics within the labour movement. As a woman of Black and South Asian descent, Harris’s candidacy represents a significant step in diversifying political leadership. Her support from unions like the UAW, which historically have been more representative of white working-class Americans, signals a potential shift towards more inclusive support structures within the labour movement.

Gender: Harris’s endorsement is a notable moment for gender representation in U.S. politics. As the first female vice president and a leading presidential candidate, her backing by the UAW reinforces her position as a champion for women in the workforce. The union’s support also highlights the increasing recognition of female leaders in traditionally male-dominated spaces, emphasizing Harris’s role in breaking barriers and advocating for gender equality in the workplace.

Economic: Economically, the UAW’s endorsement is significant for Harris’s campaign as it underscores her commitment to addressing economic challenges faced by workers. The union’s backing could translate into substantial grassroots support and campaign momentum. Harris’s focus on worker rights, fair trade, and corporate accountability aligns with economic concerns about income inequality and labour conditions, making her a favourable candidate for those advocating for economic reforms.