Reform leader elected as UAW president, promises aggressive approach to negotiations.
The United Auto Workers (UAW) has elected Shawn Fain, a member of the "UAW Members United" reform group, as its new president, ousting incumbent Ray Curry in the union's first direct election. Fain has promised a more aggressive approach to negotiations with Detroit automakers, seeking benefit gains for members, including the return of a cost-of-living adjustment, raises, and job security. The election marks a historic change in direction for the embattled union, which has been plagued by corruption and plant closures.