UAW taps former Mich. Gov. Blanchard as Chrysler rep

The United Auto Workers (UAW) union tapped former Michigan Gov. James Blanchard (D) as their representative to the newly-constituted Chrysler.

The union will ask Blanchard, a former Democratic governor and congressman, to represent its 55 percent stake in the new Chrysler Group, the Detroit News reported Thursday.

The move will put a solidly political figure in a major position of influence over the new GM — but acting at the behest of the union, not anyone else.

“In his public and private sector roles, Blanchard has wide experience in the auto industry, international trade and related issues,” the UAW said.

Specifically, Blanchard will help manage the union’s Voluntary Employees’ Beneficiary Association (VEBA) retirement account, which owns the 55 percent stake in New Chrysler.

Interestingly, Blanchard was also a figure in the Michael Moore “Roger & Me,” which took aim at the effect of the auto industry (in this case, General Motors) in Flint, Mich.