Planet Money How unions are stopped before they start
13 snips
Oct 20, 2023 Union membership in the U.S. is in decline, yet public support is surging, creating a paradox. The Volkswagen plant in Chattanooga presents a compelling case study, showcasing a decade-long battle by the United Auto Workers to establish a union there. The narrative dives into the unique challenges faced, including local political resistance, legal hurdles, and intense corporate opposition. Amidst changing landscapes and cultural impacts, workers navigate complex dynamics that reveal the broader struggles of labor relations in America.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Volkswagen's Return to the US
- Volkswagen opened a new auto plant in Chattanooga in 2011 after a 20-year absence from the US.
- The state offered over $570 million in incentives, a significant portion of the plant's cost.
Competition for Auto Plants
- Southern states competed fiercely for auto plants, offering substantial incentives.
- Tennessee's $570 million for Volkswagen was part of a larger trend.
UAW's Opportunity in Chattanooga
- The UAW saw Volkswagen's arrival as a chance to regain ground, as the company supported worker representation.
- They aimed to unionize the Chattanooga plant, despite declining union membership nationally.
