Biden’s trip is a significant display of support for organized labor as UAW members mount a targeted strike amid contract negotiations with the “Big Three” automakers — Ford, General Motors (GM) and Stellantis.
The president has frequently touted himself as the most pro-union president in history.
Organized labor groups and Democrats who have pushed for him to make a trip to the picket line are expected to celebrate the move.
During a Friday livestream hours earlier, UAW President Shawn Fain called on union workers to expand the strike to include Stellantis and GM parts distribution facilities at 38 locations across 28 states.
“We invite and encourage everyone who supports our case to join us on the picket line, from our friends and families all the way up to the president of the United States,” Fain said. “We invite you to join us in our fight.”
Biden’s trip will preempt former President Trump, who is planning to travel to Detroit to speak next Wednesday instead of attending the second GOP primary debate that night.
But Fain has been highly critical of Trump, and the former president is unlikely to appear on the picket line.
During his Friday remarks, Fain reported progress in talks with Ford but said there is still a ways to go in negotiations with Stellantis and GM.
The union demands include higher wages, better benefits and increased job security as auto companies increasingly transition toward manufacturing electric vehicles.
The Hill’s Brett Samuels’ has more here.
