UAW President's Criticism of Stellantis CEO

DETROIT – In a pointed video released Friday, United Auto Workers (UAW) President Shawn Fain intensified his criticism of Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares, alleging price gouging and breaches of the labor contract. Fain's remarks come amid ongoing tensions following last year's contentious negotiations between the UAW and major Detroit automakers, including Stellantis. "Something is rotten at Stellantis," Fain stated, highlighting a disconnect between the company's declining sales and rising executive compensation. Fain's accusations suggest that Stellantis is prioritizing profits over fair labor practices, claiming that the automaker has consistently sold fewer vehicles while increasing its profit margins. He specifically called out Tavares for allegedly gouging consumers and failing to honor commitments made in the union's contract, particularly regarding the reopening of an assembly plant in Illinois. "Fact, Stellantis has sold fewer cars, but made more in profits. They're price gouging," Fain asserted. The UAW leader's comments echo previous criticisms regarding job cuts and executive pay, but he emphasized that the situation has escalated. Meanwhile, Tavares has publicly criticized the UAW workforce, citing quality issues at a Detroit plant producing the Ram 1500 pickup truck. Stellantis has also announced significant layoffs at its U.S. facilities, attributing these decisions to declining sales and necessary product changes. As the dispute continues, both the union and Stellantis have yet to respond to Fain's latest allegations, leaving the future of their relationship uncertain.