Daimler Truck Workers Stand United: A 99% Strike Vote at Detroit Axle

On Wednesday, January 15th, over 400 Daimler Truck North America workers at Detroit Axle voted by a resounding 99% to authorize a strike if necessary. This overwhelming vote reflects the workers' growing frustration with the company's compensation and benefits package, which they believe does not align with the company's massive profits.

The workers at Detroit Axle join other UAW members at Daimler Truck who have successfully negotiated significant raises and benefits in recent years. In 2024, UAW members at Freightliner Trucks, Western Star Trucks, and Thomas Built Buses won major gains, including raises of more than 25%, and the introduction of profit-sharing and Cost-of-Living (COLA) for the first time at Daimler. These victories have set a precedent for fair labor practices and equitable compensation in the automotive industry, particularly in the South.

The workers at Detroit Axle are demanding pay that keeps up with inflation, a safe workplace, and a secure retirement. They are united in their determination to fight for their fair share of the company's profits, which have totaled over $17 billion since 2020. The UAW's strategy of organizing workers in the South has expanded union representation in traditionally non-union areas and has set a precedent for fair labor practices and equitable compensation in the automotive industry.

The UAW's success in organizing workers in the South has had a significant impact on the broader labor movement. By expanding union representation in the region, the UAW has increased its overall bargaining power and has encouraged solidarity among workers. This has led to improved working conditions and wages for a broader range of workers and has challenged anti-union sentiment in the region.

The UAW's organizing efforts in the South have also set a precedent for fair labor practices and equitable compensation in the automotive industry. By negotiating favorable contracts with companies like Daimler Truck, the UAW has shown that workers can improve their working conditions through collective bargaining. This has inspired other workers to organize and demand better wages and working conditions.

In conclusion, the 99% strike vote at Detroit Axle reflects the workers' determination to fight for their fair share of the company's profits and to improve their working conditions. The UAW's strategy of organizing workers in the South has had a significant impact on the broader labor movement, expanding union representation, encouraging solidarity among workers, and setting a precedent for fair labor practices and equitable compensation in the automotive industry.