The United Auto Workers (UAW) watch party at the Volkswagen plant in Chattanooga was filled with a sense of history as attendees celebrated a successful unionization vote. UAW President Shawn Fain expressed his belief that workers at the plant were fed up and eager for union representation, which was evident with the overwhelming vote in favor of unionization.
This victory was particularly significant as previous UAW elections at the plant had fallen short. However, this time, the vote was decisive with 2,628 workers in favor of union representation compared to 985 against. Supporters from other right-to-work states also attended the watch party, hopeful that this success in Chattanooga could lead to similar changes in their own states.
Tennessee Representative Justin Jones and President Joe Biden were quick to congratulate the workers on their successful unionization. Hamilton County Mayor Weston Wamp, who had initially opposed the UAW, expressed hope for positive outcomes but also raised concerns about the union’s reputation.
Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly, on the other hand, fully supported the workers’ choice and expressed his optimism for a better future for both Volkswagen and the city of Chattanooga. With the unionization vote now complete, employees at the plant will begin the bargaining process with the UAW.
Volkswagen also took the time to thank the Chattanooga workers for their participation in the election. The successful unionization vote marks a significant milestone for the plant and its workers, setting the stage for potential changes and improvements in the future.