UAW Launches Largest Electoral Program to Mobilize Working-Class Voters

UAW's Extensive Political Engagement Ahead of Upcoming Elections

The United Auto Workers (UAW) union has embarked on a large-scale electoral initiative, expected to involve door-to-door interactions with more than 300,000 union members and households. This campaign, one of the most expansive in recent history, began organizing efforts at the start of summer.

The UAW's strategy mirrors its successful 2023 Stand Up Strike approach, dedicated to engaging voters from union households crucial in Senate and House races across the nation. In districts where UAW membership numbers surpass the previous election's winning margins, over 130 full-time political organizers are active, supported by thousands of volunteers.

Central to the initiative is empowering members to discuss UAW's priorities—wages, healthcare, retirement, and time off—with fellow union families. Since July, this grassroots campaign has reached hundreds of thousands of voters in states such as Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, and many others. The groundwork laid has been significant.

By the election, the union aspires to achieve the following:

• 300,000 doors knocked
• 750,000 phone calls made
• 4,000 volunteers engaged

"Our political program is like everything else about the UAW: it’s member-driven," said UAW President Shawn Fain. "We’ve been flexing our muscle at the bargaining table for the last few years. Now we’re building that same muscle in our politics. This year, our members are leading a bold political program, shaking up the political status quo. We’ll start by electing UAW champions to office – but our members will lead the work that comes after election day to win a working-class agenda in the halls of power."

Key States for UAW's Political Influence

The focus on Michigan and Ohio underscores the importance of industrial employment and workers' rights in these states. "I have been knocking doors in elections for 25 years, and this one has had more energy than I’ve felt in a long time talking to UAW voters and their families," said Tielece Perry, UAW Local 7 member from Belleville, MI. "Talking about being able to make ends meet is what we do with our coworkers every time we are bargaining a new union contract, and affordability is by far the number one issue voters care about right now."

In Ohio, the UAW is heavily investing in campaigns to re-elect Senator Sherrod Brown and protect Marcy Kaptur's seat in District 09. The union also aims to flip District 07 in favor of union member Brian Poindexter. In Lorain County, a contested County Commission race has been added to the docket, highlighting ongoing strikes and workers' rights issues.

"I’ve been active in CAP for a long time now and this year is different from previous years," said Kim Daniels, a UAW Local 12 member in Toledo, OH. "For months, our boots have been on the ground throughout the state of Ohio. With our unity and power, Ohio will become the number one state for working-class people."

"I’m really proud to be involved with the UAW’s political program this election cycle," said Shawn Smith, a UAW Local 677 member in Allentown, PA. "I’ve noticed there’s less negativity towards us at doors, no matter which side someone is on. We all realize we are going in the wrong direction where nothing is affordable anymore."

Beyond Election Day: UAW's Continued Political Efforts

Conversations held during the campaign are shaping the union's agenda for the next Congress in 2027. Post-election, the UAW will channel its efforts towards Congress and state legislatures, advocating for improved wages, healthcare, retirement benefits, and increased time off.

Looking towards 2028, the union is committed to building worker power and revitalizing the American Dream, ensuring every worker can achieve financial stability, a dignified retirement, and a balanced life.