Southern Governors: Joining UAW Threatens Jobs, 'Values'

The governors of six southern states warned workers that joining the United Auto Workers (UAW) union would threaten their job security and “the values ​​we live by.”

A joint statement signed by Republicans. Bill Lee (Tenn.), Kay Ivey (Ala.), Brian Kemp (Ga.), Tate Reeves (Miss.), Henry McMaster (SC), and Greg Abbott (Texas), Published on Tuesday – Chattanooga, Tenn. A day before the Volkswagen (VW) plant in , is expected to vote on whether to organize with the UAW.

In their statement, the governors said they are “deeply concerned about the misinformation and scare tactics driven union propaganda the UAW has brought into our states.”

“As governors, when we see special interests moving into our state and threatening our jobs and the values ​​we live by, we have a responsibility to speak to our constituents,” the group wrote.

Attempts by workers to unionize at the VW plant have failed twice, once in 2014 and again in 2019, both times by narrow margins.

Ivy shared a statement Post on X social siteAlabama argues against union efforts to mobilize workers.

“The UAW is making big promises they can't keep — and we won't stand for it,” he wrote, echoing sentiments expressed in the joint memo.

UAW strategist Chris Brooks responded to Ivey's comments about X, telling governors who signed the letter. “Very scary.”

When The Hill reached out to the UAW about the governors' letter, the union had no comment.

Democratic governors have been more supportive of auto unions' efforts to expand nationwide. Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear (D) praised the UAW last week, saying the union helps improve the quality of life and quality of life for workers.

“Unions have helped build our commonwealth and nation while raising the standard of living and quality of life for workers,” Beshear said. Published in X. “I'm always proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with my friends at @UAW.”

Republican governors expressed concern about the UAW's goals and mission. They also criticized the organization for endorsing President Biden's re-election bid.

“We have serious reservations about the UAW leadership being able to represent our values,” they wrote. “They proudly call themselves democratic socialists and are more focused on helping to re-elect President Biden than cutting auto worker jobs at the plants they already represent.”

The latest round of votes at the VW plant Starting on Wednesday and Expected to go for three days. Results are expected on Friday.

The UAW made headlines last year when employees walked out against the “big three” automakers. They finally reached agreements with Ford, General Motors and Stellandis — in late October — after a six-week strike.