United Auto Workers expand strike, shut down largest Stellantis plant

The United Auto Workers union on Monday announced that it had expanded its ongoing strike to include the Sterling Heights Assembly Plant, which belongs to Stellantis.

The manufacturer, formerly known as Chrysler, has been the least willing to work with the striking auto workers among the Detroit Three, Politico reported. The walkout at the plant brings the total number of striking workers up to 40,000.

Initially, the UAW began its efforts with targeted strikes at key facilities belonging to Stellantis, Ford, and General Motors, but has gradually expanded the strike to additional locations in the face of unpalatable offers from the companies.

Stellantis, for its part, expressed frustration at the walkout, saying it had not received a counter-offer since its last overture to the union on Thursday.

"Our very strong offer would address member demands and provide immediate financial gains for our employees," Stellantis. "Instead, the UAW has decided to cause further harm to the entire automotive industry as well as our local, state and national economies."

All three companies have proposed 23% wage hikes. The union, however, initially demanded substantially more, including the return of traditional pensions, a 36% raise, and the transition to a four-day work week.

The Sterling Heights plant makes RAM 1500 trucks.

The expansion of the strike follows a walkout at a Kentucky Ford plant that saw roughly 8,700 workers leave their posts.

Ben Whedon is an editor and reporter for Just the News. Follow him on X, formerly Twitter.