The United Auto Workers (UAW) union has officially endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris for U.S. president, providing a significant boost as her campaign gains momentum in the crucial swing state of Michigan. UAW President Shawn Fain lauded Harris for her dedication to the working class and her stance against corporate greed, citing her active support for workers and her past involvement in striking auto workers' efforts.

The endorsement follows a decision earlier this year to support President Joe Biden’s reelection bid, which was subsequently withdrawn on July 21. With many UAW members residing and working in Michigan, this endorsement is expected to bolster Harris's standing in the state. Both Biden and former President Donald Trump have been active in Michigan's political scene.

Fain highlighted Harris’s track record on fighting corporate price-gouging and unfair trade practices, noting her participation in picketing with auto workers in 2019. Harris is scheduled to rally with UAW members in Detroit on August 7, as part of her campaign activities.

A recent Reuters/Ipsos poll shows Harris with a narrow lead over Trump, indicating a competitive race. This comes after concerns about Biden's ability to defeat Trump led to the UAW's shift in endorsement. Fain has been vocal in his criticism of Trump, describing a potential Trump presidency as detrimental to the working class. Trump, in turn, has criticized Fain and the UAW, accusing the union of failing to prevent foreign auto manufacturers from establishing operations in Mexico.

While traditionally aligned with Democratic candidates, the UAW's endorsement of Harris marks a deepening relationship, especially after Biden’s historic walkout with striking auto workers last September, which resulted in record contracts, including substantial wage increases and cost-of-living adjustments.

Other major unions are also considering their endorsements. The Teamsters, representing 1.3 million workers, have yet to endorse a candidate, though they have invited Harris for discussions. Teamsters President Sean O'Brien spoke at the Republican National Convention but refrained from endorsing Trump.

In a separate development, Trump addressed his stance on electric vehicles at the National Association of Black Journalists conference in Chicago, expressing his opposition to universal electric car adoption despite endorsements from figures like Tesla CEO Elon Musk.