Volkswagen Workers in Tennessee Vote to Join United Automobile Workers Union in Historic Win

In a groundbreaking development, workers at the Volkswagen plant in Tennessee have made a historic decision to join the United Automobile Workers (U.A.W.) union, marking a significant victory for organized labor in the region. This move signifies a major shift as it is the first time a nonunion auto plant in a Southern state has opted to join the U.A.W.

The union's victory was confirmed in a statement released late on Friday, revealing that a total of 2,628 votes were cast in favor of joining the U.A.W., while 985 were opposed. This resounding mandate in favor of unionization comes after two previous attempts by the U.A.W. to organize the Chattanooga factory, both of which were narrowly defeated over the past decade.

The outcome of this vote represents a major breakthrough for the labor movement in a region that has traditionally held strong anti-union sentiments for many years. It is particularly noteworthy as it follows a landmark period for the U.A.W., during which the union secured record wage gains and improved benefits in negotiations with the Detroit automakers just six months ago.

With over 80 years of experience, the U.A.W. has been the representative voice for workers employed by major automakers such as General Motors, Ford Motor and Stellantis, the producer of Chrysler, Jeep, Ram, and Dodge vehicles. Additionally, the union has also successfully organized some heavy-truck and bus factories in the Southern region.