Chattanooga, Tennessee – Workers at Volkswagen’s plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee, have voted overwhelmingly to join the United Auto Workers (UAW), marking a significant achievement for the union. This marks the UAW’s first successful organizing campaign outside of Detroit’s Big Three automakers. The National Labor Relations Board reported that 73% of the 3,620 eligible VW workers voted in favor of union organizing, with a total of 2,628 workers supporting the UAW.
The NLRB still needs to certify the results, but if no objections are filed within five business days, the outcome will be officially recognized. Volkswagen released a statement acknowledging the UAW’s victory but provided limited commentary. UAW leaders view this win as a major breakthrough, especially following the recent strikes and record contracts at Detroit automakers.
President Joe Biden praised the union for its historic vote and emphasized the impact of union wins on raising wages and strengthening the middle class. The UAW plans to leverage this victory as a launching point for organizing campaigns at 13 other automakers in the U.S., building on last year’s successful contract negotiations with major companies.
Despite opposition from some Southern state governors who fear job losses, the UAW sees the successful organizing drive at Volkswagen as a stepping stone to further expansion. The union’s next focus will be on negotiating with VW and preparing for a possible organizing vote at a Mercedes-Benz plant in Alabama. UAW President Shawn Fain has expressed optimism about the union’s future and aims to expand its reach beyond the Big Three automakers.
The UAW’s win at Volkswagen’s Chattanooga plant represents a significant achievement and sets the stage for further organizing efforts in the automotive industry. With a strong foundation in place, the union is poised for continued growth and influence in the coming years.