Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) criticized Boeing’s approach to labor negotiations during a recent Capitol Hill hearing, addressing the company’s chief labor counsel, Scott Mayer. The exchange comes as 3,200 members of IAM District 837 in St. Louis remain on strike for a ninth week.
“With 3,000 plus residents of my state on strike, unable to work, unable to get healthcare while your CEO is getting paid 30-some million dollars,” said Hawley. “Fairness may be elusive, but that doesn’t look like fairness to me.”
Hawley has previously voiced support for the striking workers. In early September, he told Missourinet that Boeing should reach an agreement with union members. “Management here needs to suck it up and get this thing over with,” said Hawley. “That company is so important to our state, the jobs that it provides, the great things that it produces.”
Boeing’s Defense, Space & Security unit reported $6.6 billion in revenue for the second quarter of fiscal year 2025—a 10 percent increase compared to last year—while contract talks continue between IAM District 837 and the company under federal mediation.
IAM Union International President Brian Bryant commented on the ongoing dispute: “We’re tired of Boeing hiding behind posturing and PR spin. Our members build the jets and defense systems that keep this nation safe, and they deserve a deal that reflects their sacrifice, expertise and value. Boeing’s repeated lowball proposals are a slap in the face to the men and women who power their bottom line. The time for grandstanding is over. Negotiate in good faith now, Boeing.”
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers represents about 600,000 active and retired members across North America in several sectors including aerospace, defense, airlines, shipbuilding, railways, transit systems, healthcare services and automotive industries.
