Nearly 150,000 autoworkers represented by UAW strike GM, Ford, and Stellantis
Strike follows failed contract negotiations, deadline missed at 11:59 p.m. ET.
Approximately 12,700 union workers strike at select plants.
"Stand-up" strike initiated, not all union members strike simultaneously.
UAW President Shawn Fain calls it a defining moment for the working class.
Stellantis expresses disappointment in the UAW's refusal to reach a fair agreement.
Disagreements include wage increases and workweek length.
UAW demands a 46% pay increase over four years and a 32-hour workweek at 40-hour pay.
GM and Ford offer 20% pay increase; Stellantis offers 17.5%, maintaining a 40-hour workweek.
Ford remains committed to reaching an agreement while emphasizing the potential consequences of a strike.