In Pittsburgh, the United Steelworkers Union has thrown its support behind President Joe Biden, marking another significant endorsement from a major labor union. This decision was announced on a Wednesday, coming on the heels of Biden’s public disapproval of the proposed acquisition of U.S. Steel by Japan’s Nippon Steel. He emphasized the importance of keeping the company under American ownership and management.
The union, which boasts a membership of 850,000 workers across various sectors including metals, mining, and rubber, praised Biden for his consistent support for issues critical to its members. These issues include retirement security, affordable healthcare, and pro-worker legislation.
Prior to this, Biden had already secured endorsements from influential unions such as the AFL-CIO and the United Auto Workers, along with several others, positioning him strongly against Donald Trump, the expected Republican contender. Meanwhile, the Teamsters union is still in discussions with both parties, withholding its endorsement for the time being.
Biden’s stance against the Nippon Steel deal underscores his commitment to supporting union workers, even at the potential cost of straining relations with the business sector and Japan, a significant ally. This move is particularly strategic given Pennsylvania’s status as a crucial battleground state in the upcoming election.
The USW has expressed concerns about whether Nippon Steel would respect existing labor agreements. On the other hand, Trump had earlier declared his intention to block the acquisition, labeling it a detrimental move for a Japanese company to take over U.S. Steel.
Nippon Steel, however, argues that the acquisition would be advantageous for U.S. Steel, its workers, and the nation’s security. The company believes that the deal would enhance quality, competitiveness, and strengthen American supply chains.