The United Auto Workers' efforts to organize auto plants in the southern United States face another crucial test this week at Mercedes-Benz in Alabama, following a recent victory at Volkswagen in Tennessee.

Approximately 5,200 workers at the Mercedes auto manufacturing plant and battery complex near Tuscaloosa, Alabama, will determine whether to join the United Auto Workers in a federally-administered election scheduled from Monday through Friday.

This election follows the UAW's success on April 19 at Volkswagen's Chattanooga, Tennessee plant, marking the first successful UAW drive at a foreign-owned auto plant in a southern state.

However, the UAW has encountered more significant opposition at Mercedes-Benz US International (MBUSI) compared to VW, which maintained a neutral stance toward the election in official communications.

Workers supporting the union have lodged complaints with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), alleging unfair retaliation by the company against union activity, worker surveillance, and other charges. The NLRB is overseeing the election.

Furthermore, the UAW has filed a complaint under a new German law on global supply chain practices, accusing the company of a "clear human rights violation" by allegedly terminating a pro-union worker with cancer and compelling employees to attend anti-union meetings led by plant leaders.

MBUSI has stated that it fully respects the choice of its team members regarding unionization and emphasized its successful 25+ years of operation as "One Team" in Alabama. The company believes that open and direct communication with its team members is crucial for continued success.

The recent victory at VW, coupled with President Biden's support during the UAW's strike last fall, has elevated UAW President Shawn Fain's profile and momentum. A win at Mercedes would further boost the UAW's standing and potentially inspire workers at other southern factories operated by Honda, Toyota, Hyundai, and other automakers.

Art Wheaton, director of Labor Studies at Cornell's School of Industrial Relations, suggests that even a defeat in Alabama could pave the way for future success. He highlights the UAW's persistence, noting previous failed attempts before eventual victory in Tennessee.

Wheaton emphasizes that win or lose, the UAW is committed for the long term, viewing each outcome as a stepping stone toward achieving its goals.