UAW Throws Weight Behind El-Sayed in Michigan Senate Race
In a significant political maneuver, the United Auto Workers (UAW) union has publicly endorsed Abdul El-Sayed for the Democratic primary for Michigan’s U.S. Senate seat. This endorsement carries considerable weight due to the UAW’s substantial influence in Michigan’s Democratic circles, with its vast network of active and retired members.
Abdul El-Sayed expressed his vision in a press statement, emphasizing his focus on combating corporate greed and bolstering Michigan’s economy through union labor. “Together, we’re going to take on corporate greed, rebuild an economy that works for working people, strengthen collective bargaining, and ensure that the future of Michigan manufacturing is built right here by union workers,” El-Sayed declared. “Solidarity forever.”
The UAW’s decision to endorse El-Sayed is rooted in his advocacy for policies such as a “Medicare for all” single-payer health system, the prohibition of stock buybacks, and his stance against accepting corporate PAC contributions.
Other contenders in the race, U.S. Representative Haley Stevens and state Senator Mallory McMorrow, have also actively sought union support. However, according to David Dulio, a political science professor at Oakland University, the UAW’s backing is particularly notable. “The UAW is a behemoth in the labor world,” Dulio noted. “Everybody takes notice of what the UAW does in their endorsements and how they get involved in politics.”
As the race intensifies, the UAW’s support could significantly impact the outcome, especially in a tightly contested three-way race. While not all union members may follow the endorsement, it does indicate a shift towards the left among Democratic activists. “I think it is another piece of evidence that the progressive wing of the Democratic Party is getting stronger and stronger,” Dulio added.
The UAW’s reach extends beyond the manufacturing sector, influencing sectors such as government, casinos, and academia, reflecting its evolving priorities.
Meanwhile, Haley Stevens plans to emphasize her manufacturing background, notably her involvement with President Barack Obama’s auto industry rescue task force. “Haley Stevens has spent her career fighting for Michigan manufacturing, our auto industry, and the workers who keep our economy moving,” stated Stevens’ spokesperson, Joetta Appiah.
McMorrow’s campaign underscored her broad union support, with spokesperson Jackson Boaz noting, “Mallory has always stood with working Michiganders. She’s grateful to have earned the support of multiple national unions – and we will continue to make the case to every Michigander about why Mallory is the only candidate who can win the primary, unite the party, and defeat Mike Rogers in November.”
On the opposing side, former U.S. Representative Mike Rogers is running unchallenged for the Republican Senate nomination. Additionally, the UAW has endorsed Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson for the Democratic gubernatorial nomination, positioning her as the frontrunner against Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson. The union has not made any endorsements in the Republican primaries.
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