President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump are taking their presidential campaigns to Michigan this week as they vie for the support of blue-collar voters, particularly those in the United Auto Workers (UAW) union. Both candidates recognize Michigan’s significance in electoral politics, as the state played a crucial role in deciding the outcomes of the 2020 and 2016 presidential elections. While historically the UAW has supported Democratic candidates, including Biden in 2020, union President Shawn Fain has yet to reendorse Biden, despite the president’s claims of being the “most pro-union president in American history.” Trump, on the other hand, has garnered significant support from rank-and-file union members.
President Biden made a visit to a GM parts facility in Belleville, Michigan, to show support for striking autoworkers. This move was in response to a public invitation from UAW President Shawn Fain. However, Fain has expressed skepticism about Biden’s commitment to the working class and has instead aligned himself with progressive Senator Bernie Sanders. Fain views the UAW’s battle with the Detroit automakers as a “war” between the billionaire elite and the blue-collar working class. Nonetheless, Biden’s visit to the picket line could serve as an olive branch to secure the union’s eventual endorsement and gain leverage in ongoing negotiations with the automakers.
Meanwhile, former President Trump, who is considered a front-runner among Republicans for the 2024 presidential race, is scheduled to hold a rally in Clinton Township, Michigan. Trump’s events in Macomb County, a stronghold of blue-collar workers, have traditionally attracted union members. Despite the UAW’s reservations about Trump, many autoworkers feel a connection to him due to his business background and perceived negotiation skills. Trump has been able to gain support among union members as Biden’s popularity among this demographic has waned in recent months.
The transition to electric vehicles (EVs) is a key issue that differentiates Biden and Trump’s stances in relation to the UAW. While Biden’s administration is pushing for a transition to cleaner technologies, some union members are concerned about potential job loss associated with the shift to EVs. Trump’s rhetoric aligns with these concerns, as he highlights the potential elimination of jobs due to the Biden administration’s forced transition. Despite Fain’s reservations, Biden’s visit to Michigan could serve as an opportunity to address the union’s concerns and secure their endorsement by offering reassurances about the impact of the transition on the auto industry workforce.
Michigan voters hold significant sway in presidential elections, leading both Biden and Trump to invest time and effort into courting the state’s working-class population. The UAW strike provides an ideal moment for both candidates to showcase their commitment to blue-collar workers and gain visibility in the media. Biden and Trump are aware of the fine margins that can determine election outcomes, as demonstrated by their heightened presence during this strike. Ultimately, the battle for Michigan’s working class remains a key battleground for future electoral success.
Biden and Trump’s visits to Michigan amid the UAW strikes reflect their recognition of the importance of the working-class vote, particularly in Michigan. While both candidates seek support from blue-collar workers, their approaches and alliances differ. Biden’s visit to the picket line demonstrates his willingness to engage with the UAW, while Trump’s rally aims to appeal directly to autoworkers. With Michigan’s pivotal role in recent presidential elections, the fight for the state’s working-class vote will continue to shape electoral strategies and policies moving forward.
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