The United Auto Workers (UAW) union has expressed its support for the Medicare for All Act, citing the necessity for comprehensive health care access for all working-class individuals. The UAW emphasizes that no one should have to choose between health care and essential living expenses. Their stance is that the current healthcare system undermines workers’ dignity and weakens union power at the negotiation table.
Autoworkers, in particular, have faced significant challenges following the Great Recession when major automotive manufacturers reduced retiree health benefits for new employees as a part of financial concessions. This has left a generation of retiring workers without employer-provided health care as they approach Medicare eligibility. The UAW criticizes this situation, noting that companies record significant profits while failing to support their workers adequately.
The union asserts that all individuals should have access to high-quality, comprehensive health care irrespective of their union membership. The current situation forces unions like the UAW to utilize substantial negotiating power to maintain health insurance for their members. The UAW argues that, without having to struggle for basic healthcare access, they could negotiate for better wages and work conditions.
Highlighting specific instances, the UAW points to Volkswagen, which reportedly earned $92.4 billion in operating profit over four years and $351 billion in revenue in 2024. In Chattanooga, where workers are negotiating their first contract, a majority have had to choose between essentials and health care, or have incurred debt for medical expenses. The UAW views this as an example of corporate greed at the expense of the working class.
The UAW commends several lawmakers, including Senator Sanders, Representatives Jayapal, Dingell, and Ocasio-Cortez, for their advocacy of the Medicare for All legislation. They urge for the removal of profit motives from the healthcare system to prevent financial and health-related hardships for workers.
