US auto strike expands with 7,000 more workers joining

Around 7,000 more members of the United Auto Workers (UAW) union joined the ongoing strike against the top three Detroit car manufacturers, bringing the total number of striking workers to over 25,000. UAW President Shawn Fain called on workers at Ford and General Motors plants in Chicago and Michigan to join the strike for higher salaries and other improvements. The union has asked for a 40% pay raise over the next four-year contract, while the companies have offered around 20%. The strike has gained political significance in Michigan’s swing state status for the upcoming presidential election.