An unfair labor practice charge was filed by the United Auto Workers (UAW) against Donald Trump’s campaign and Tesla CEO Elon Musk on Tuesday, following Trump’s recent remarks on X advocating for the dismissal of striking employees.
In a Monday interview with Musk, who owns the social media platform, Trump suggested, “When they go on strike, I won’t name the company, but if they strike, you say, ‘That’s fine, you’re all dismissed.’” He further emphasized, “Every one of you is gone.”
The UAW charged Trump’s campaign and Elon Musk with unfair labor practices over Trump’s remarks supporting the firing of striking workers
Such threats or actions against striking employees violate the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA). Trump’s comments were made as he attempts to appeal to union members, even though major unions, including the UAW, have endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris following President Joe Biden’s withdrawal from the race.
The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) will need to review the UAW’s charge and determine if it warrants further action. Musk is currently in legal disputes with the NLRB, seeking to block enforcement actions against his other business, SpaceX. Trump’s remarks were part of a broader, disjointed discussion during his much-anticipated chat with Musk.
UAW President Shawn Fain condemned Trump, labeling him a “scab” and criticizing his support for Musk, who is funding a super PAC backing Trump’s presidential campaign. Fain stated, “Both Trump and Musk aim to silence working-class voices and mock it openly. It’s disgraceful, illegal, and unsurprising from these figures.”
Trump has also criticized Fain and other union leaders, encouraging members to challenge them and support his return to office. Neither Trump’s campaign nor Musk responded immediately to the UAW’s complaint.
