Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a Democrat from New York, defended her use of a non-union-made electric car while expressing support for the United Auto Workers (UAW) strike during an appearance on CBS’ “Face the Nation.”
The progressive lawmaker was complementing President Biden’s plan to visit autoworkers in Michigan when host Margaret Brennan questioned her choice of vehicle.
Brennan reminded Ocasio-Cortez of her previous statement in July about wanting to purchase a union-made electric vehicle. Brennan asked why the representative currently owned a non-union-made Tesla, especially when the UAW already produces some electric vehicles. Ocasio-Cortez explained that her car was purchased during the pandemic when travel was limited and deemed safer in an electric vehicle. She acknowledged that new models that have the desired range are available now, and she is considering trading in her current car for a union-made electric vehicle.
The UAW officially began a strike against major auto companies Ford, General Motors, and Stellantis on September 15. The union demands a shorter work week, higher pay, and improved member retirement benefits. Ocasio-Cortez praised the visits of both President Biden and former President Trump to the striking auto workers.
She stated that the crisis of inequality in the economy requires a significant level of political and popular support to achieve a breakthrough. Ocasio-Cortez criticized the significant wage and compensation increases given to CEOs while workers have experienced real wage decreases over the past decade. She believes unprecedented involvement is needed to ensure workers receive what they deserve.
The representative admired President Biden’s visit to the picket line, noting that it was a historic event. She emphasized that no modern president has shown up at a picket line like this before, and she believes it demonstrates Biden’s commitment to earning the support of workers. Ocasio-Cortez anticipates that his visit to Michigan on Tuesday will help in that effort.
In her response to Brennan’s question about her choice of vehicle, Ocasio-Cortez provided a reasonable explanation for owning a non-union-made electric car. She acknowledged the market shift towards electric vehicles and expressed her intention to support union-made electric vehicles.
Overall, Ocasio-Cortez’s comments on the UAW strike and the visits of President Biden and former President Trump were balanced and focused on the need for fair treatment of workers and the fight against economic inequality.
