UAW CAP Conference Focuses on Political Vision and Worker Empowerment

The UAW Commences CAP Conference in Washington, D.C.

The United Auto Workers (UAW) initiated its biannual Community Action Program (CAP) Conference in Washington, D.C., on Sunday. The gathering attracted around 1,000 union members from various regions to deliberate over strategies and bolster the working class. The conference this year centers on the UAW’s political outlook and its four main priorities: wages, health care, retirement, and time off.

The event began with UAW Region 8 Director Tim Smith extending a warm welcome to delegates and introducing the International Executive Board. Known for his energetic approach, Smith sparked enthusiasm among the attendees, declaring, “Workers everywhere are waking up and realizing they need a union, but not just any union. They want the UAW, the mighty UAW!”

Region 9 Director Jimmy Lakeman, recently elected, evoked the memory of renowned UAW President Walter Reuther by highlighting the link between political and economic influence: “there’s a direct relationship between the ballot box and the bread box, and what the union fights for and wins at the bargaining table can be taken away in the legislative halls.”

Lakeman pressed on the importance of elections, saying, “Elections matter. And the people we elect and what they fight for matter.”

Among the notable speakers was Independent U.S. Senate candidate from Nebraska, Dan Osborn, and AFGE President Everett Kelley.

Osborn, who received a recent endorsement from the UAW, stressed the necessity for the working class to overcome division and unite against the economic system and the billionaire class. He urged, “We need to stop looking left and right and start looking up.”

AFGE President Everett Kelley delivered a fervent address, criticizing the Trump administration for its anti-worker policies and encouraging UAW members to engage politically: “We’re gonna mobilize and organize, not as spectators, not as commentators, but as participators! We’re gonna make it clear that attacks on labor come at a political cost!”

Following the conclusion of the first day, attendees gathered for dinner and watched the Super Bowl LX together, supporting (or opposing) the Seahawks and Patriots.

The second day of the 2026 National CAP Conference is set to begin at 9 am.

Further details about the event are available at UAW.org/CAP2026.