Why does the UAW get involved in politics?
Members often ask why the UAW gets involved in politics. The simple truth is that politics play a role in every facet of our lives; job security, pensions and retirement, healthcare, and countless other elements are all influenced by lawmakers. It would be irresponsible for the UAW and its members to avoid involvement in politics, as our involvement (or lack thereof) directly impacts the everyday lives of each one of us. As UAW President Walter Reuther famously said, "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".
The endorsement of UAW Region 2B is never given—it is earned. UAW Region 2B endorsements do not depend upon on party affiliation. Many people mistakenly believe that our endorsements are simply issued along party lines, but that is not the case. While it is true that candidates of the Democratic Party more often vote with union values, there have been some Republicans who have earned our endorsement over the years, as well. What is relevant are the candidate’s positions on issues that are important to our members and their families.
The UAW endorsement is a sacred honor that is entrusted with political candidates who have pledged to support our values. Everything that we win at the bargaining table can be taken away at the stroke of a pen by lawmakers, so it is imperative that we elect people to those positions who we can trust to have our backs when we need them.
The UAW endorsement has helped to lead many candidates to victory….and make no mistake that those victories would not have been possible without the dedicated efforts of countless members and retirees who volunteered their time to knock doors, phone bank, and talk to their friends and neighbors about voting for UAW-endorsed candidates!
A list of UAW endorsed candidates in your voting district can be found at www.uawendorsements.org.
How does a candidate for office receive the endorsement of UAW Region 2B?
Candidates interested in being considered for a UAW endorsement are required to fill out a candidate questionnaire and/or interviewed by our CAP Councils. Further, incumbent candidates’ endorsements are considered based upon their voting records and relationship with the UAW.
First, candidates for Local, Statewide, State Legislative and Federal office who are interested in being considered for an endorsement go through an extensive vetting process by Region 2B’s Area CAP Councils. Then, recommendations are made to the Indiana or Ohio State CAP Boards. These State CAP Boards consist of Area CAP Councilmembers, members-at-large, Region 2B Retiree Advisory Council members and the UAW Region 2B Director. After careful consideration, the State CAP Boards either make their endorsements or they may choose a “no endorsement” option.
Members are free to vote for the candidate of their choice, but many members want to consider a candidate whose positions and voting record reflect union values.
If you are a candidate seeking a political endorsement from UAW Region 2B, click here to fill out our contact form.
