With more than 25 years of experience in the automotive industry, I have had the privilege of watching Alabama rise to the forefront of manufacturing excellence. This journey from fast-growing industry to international powerhouse has highlighted the strategic blend of innovation, skill, and strong work ethic that characterizes our local ethos. But this incredible progress is now at risk. The upcoming unionization vote at the Mercedes plant in Vance looms as a significant threat to disrupt the thriving ecosystem we have built.

I understand that innovation, skilled labor, and a pro-business environment are what make the auto industry work. This delicate balance is now at risk with the incursion of the United Auto Workers (UAW). The UAW's broad political agenda threatens to undermine the very foundation of the auto industry's success. The UAW's move to unionize the Mercedes plant in Alabama is not about improving working conditions for workers. It is a direct attack by the left on Alabama's conservative political ideals. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, UAW membership has fallen from 672,000 in 2000 to 370,000 in 2023. This has had a major impact on their political influence, and the UAW is seeking to rectify this at the expense of Alabama.

In response, the Alabama Legislature has taken decisive action. A recent bill aims to protect the auto industry by removing financial incentives for companies that avoid secret ballot elections for union recognition. The law ensures that any decision to unionize is made by the workers themselves, free from outside pressure, and maintains the integrity of the choice.

Experience has shown that when employees have a direct relationship with their employer, the work environment is more positive and productive. When unions are brought into this situation, it often complicates relationships, creates inefficiencies, and ultimately leads to job losses. We can see this at companies like Stellantis, which announced just this week that it is moving jobs overseas, due in part to high costs.

The threat of the UAW gaining a foothold in Alabama carries significant economic risk. In an industry that is increasingly turning to technological solutions, the added costs and constraints of unionization could accelerate the transition to automation, which will inevitably lead to job losses. Moreover, the UAW’s presence could act as a deterrent to potential investors. Companies considering expanding or building new facilities would weigh heavily on the region’s economic situation and labor relations. The introduction of the UAW could be perceived as a sign of a worsening business environment, discouraging future investment and stifling job creation that has been essential to the region’s growth. This scenario is not just a hypothetical risk, but a concrete threat that could reshape the economic landscape of Alabama’s auto industry.

This unionization effort carries enormous risks. Alabama's auto industry, known for its flexibility and innovation, could be severely damaged if the UAW's influence expands. Given the union's history of corruption and inefficiency, I am increasingly concerned that the union's presence could do more harm than good, jeopardizing not only individual jobs but the economic prosperity of the state as a whole.

As someone who has dedicated a quarter century to this industry, I can say with confidence that the introduction of the UAW would severely undermine the competitive edge we have built. We must not forget the lessons learned from cities like Detroit, where union dominance once promised prosperity, but instead led to decline and despair. The impact of a Yes vote would extend far beyond a single plant and could undermine the prosperity and stability of entire communities.

The decision facing Alabama autoworkers is a critical one. By voting no on the UAW, you're not simply choosing to reject a union; you're choosing to preserve your state's autonomy, protect your jobs, and ensure the future prosperity of our industry. This is about preserving a functioning system that fosters innovation, rewards skills and stimulates economic growth without unnecessary interference from a union whose priorities are not aligned with the needs of workers and our state.

Let me be clear: this unionization vote is a pivotal moment for Alabama. We must come together in light of the harsh realities we see in other union-dominated states and make the choice that will ensure our tradition of auto manufacturing leadership. Let's choose wisely, remain independent, and continue to advance the prosperity that has defined Alabama's auto industry.

Jerick Wilkins is an automotive consultant, author, and former congressional candidate.