Ford’s Contract Cancellation Raises Concerns
As of 9:10 a.m. on January 14, following Ford Motor Company’s decision to end its long-standing carhaul contract with Jack Cooper, Teamsters general president Sean M. O’Brian has pledged to mobilize the full support of the Union to defend Cooper. He has called on Ford to “strongly reconsider this decision.”
Impact on Workers
O’Brian expressed that Ford’s actions have jeopardized the jobs of over 1,400 Teamsters-represented carhaul workers and their families. He criticized Ford, a historically significant American brand, for prioritizing profits by severing ties with a family-run business in favor of less reputable third-party companies, which offer lower wages and reduced benefits to workers transporting Ford vehicles.
Union’s Stance
He emphasized that the entire Teamsters Union, comprising 1.3 million members, stands firmly against what he termed a “shameful and un-American decision.”
Concerns About the Economy
O’Brian warned that the decline of well-paying union jobs poses a significant threat to the overall economy. He noted a repeated pattern where companies that prioritize the lowest bidder ultimately harm workers’ lives, devastate communities, and undermine the middle class. He insists that this trend must come to an end.
Commitment to Defend Workers
He affirmed that the Union would continue to advocate for its members and safeguard “honorable union jobs in America.”
Ford’s Response
In response, Ford Motor Company stated, “We do not comment on our contracts or relationships with individual suppliers. We manage supplier relationships in alignment with our sourcing strategy, which aims to best serve our customers.”
