Published
October 06, 2026
The debate over union representation is supposed to be settled by employees, not politicians. That is why a recent report that Gretchen Whitmer, the governor of Michigan, lobbied German officials regarding unionization efforts at a Mercedes-Benz plant in Alabama are so troubling. According to the Wall Street Journal, Whitmer appealed to Cem Özdemir, the German Minister-President of Baden-Württemberg, to exert influence on Mercedes concerning labor relations at its Alabama facility.
The irony is difficult to miss. Michigan’s governor was effectively attempting to influence labor relations in another state, at a facility operated by a private employer, concerning a representation question that federal law reserves for employees. Whether one supports unions or opposes them, the principle should be straightforward: workers should decide for themselves, free from coercion by either management, unions, or elected officials.
Union advocates often demand employer neutrality during organizing campaigns. Yet at the same time, they increasingly welcome intervention from governors, members of Congress, cabinet officials, and even foreign governments when that intervention advances organizing objectives. In the Mercedes campaign, the UAW not only pursued traditional organizing but also sought pressure through German legal and political channels, alleging violations of labor rights by the company.
This raises an important question: if unions are allowed to enlist politicians, advocacy groups, regulators, and international institutions in support of their campaigns, why should employers be expected to remain silent?
Employers have legitimate interests at stake. Unionization affects labor costs, workplace flexibility, operational efficiency, competitiveness, and ultimately the business’s ability to invest and create jobs. Federal labor law recognizes this reality by permitting employers to share lawful views, arguments, and opinions regarding unionization. An informed employee choice requires hearing from both sides.
The outcome at Mercedes underscores the point. Despite an intensive organizing effort, workers at the Alabama facility voted against UAW representation by a significant margin. The employees heard competing arguments and made their choice.
Politicians should respect that process rather than attempting to influence it. The role of government is to ensure fair elections, not to serve as an auxiliary organizing department for labor unions. When elected officials cross that line, they undermine the very employee free choice they claim to champion.
About the author
Sean P. Redmond
Sean P. Redmond is Vice President, Labor Policy at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
