Missouri Senator Josh Hawley has publicly criticized Boeing for its handling of ongoing labor negotiations with members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) District 837, who have been on strike in St. Louis for nine weeks.
During a recent Capitol Hill exchange with Boeing’s chief labor counsel, Scott Mayer, Hawley questioned the company’s approach to bargaining. “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 expressed support for the striking workers. In early September, he was quoted by Missourinet urging Boeing management to resolve the dispute. “Management here needs to suck it up and get this thing over with,” Hawley said. “That company is so important to our state, the jobs that it provides, the great things that it produces.”
Boeing’s Defense, Space & Security division reported a 10% increase in revenue year over year for the second quarter of fiscal 2025, totaling $6.6 billion. Despite these financial results, IAM District 837 members have rejected Boeing’s proposals, stating that they do not meet basic standards of fairness and dignity.
Negotiations between IAM District 837 and Boeing are ongoing under federal mediation.
IAM International President Brian Bryant commented on the situation: “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 IAM represents about 600,000 active and retired members across North America in industries such as aerospace, defense, airlines, shipbuilding, rail, transit, healthcare, automotive, among others.
