Key UAW Leaders Endorse Mary Waters in Democratic Primary Battle

In Taylor, key leaders of the United Auto Workers (UAW) from Wayne County region showed up in strong numbers on Thursday to cheer on Mary Waters in her Democratic primary contest. She’s up against U.S. Congressman Shri Thanedar, also from Detroit.

The UAW’s Region 1A Director, Laura Dickerson, who looks after a large part of Wayne County, made her feelings clear. “We’re backing Mary because we need a go-getter,” she said. “A large number of my members haven’t been exactly thrilled with their current Congressman, and hence, we’re throwing our weight behind Mary.”

According to Dickerson, Waters has proved her worth with a stellar track record. “She has always been there for us, even when we were on strike. She knows all about collective bargaining because she’s been a part of our union and several others. We know she’s dependable,” Dickerson explained.

LaShawn English, the UAW Region 1 Director, was clear that the members have a preference. They gave their “full-throated” approval for Waters. Region 1 includes eastern Wayne County.

In words of Mary Waters, who had previously served as a state representative, the 13th Congressional District has been missing a solid representative. “I’m part of the UAW family. It goes all the way back to my time at Blue Cross Blue Shield. The UAW knows I’ll be a rock for hardworking people, something that has been missing for quite a bit now,” Waters said in her address.

She sounded grateful and thrilled about the endorsement by the UAW. “I feel incredibly privileged that the UAW took time to clarify things because Thanedar is trying to spread around that he’s their supported candidate.”

Thanedar had circulated mailers showing him joining the UAW on their strike. But he didn’t seem bothered by the endorsement. He said, “Regardless of the endorsement, I will always stand with labor and workers. I’ve always been proud to be on their side.”

English and Dickerson later clarified that they personally support Vice President Kamala Harris. This came right after President Joe Biden announced he was stepping out of the race. Even though UAW formally endorsed Biden earlier, it has not officially backed Harris.

“Being a Black woman myself, and she also being my sorority sister, I totally and completely back Kamala Harris,” said Dickerson.