Boeing factory workers in Seattle held a rally demanding a better wage deal from the company’s new CEO Kelly Ortberg. The workers, who have been on strike since September, are seeking a 40% wage increase over four years and improved pensions. Congressional Democrats, including Senator Maria Cantwell and Representatives Adam Smith and Rick Larsen, have called on Boeing to reach a mutually beneficial deal. Boeing recently announced job cuts and financial offerings on Wall Street to ease its financial situation. Both Boeing and the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers have accused each other of unfair labor practices. There have been attempts to break the deadlock, including a meeting with Acting U.S. Labor Secretary Julie Su. Boeing plans to issue layoff notices in the coming months, but striking workers are not currently affected by the job cuts. The strike has put pressure on Boeing, which has faced scrutiny since a safety incident with a 737 MAX jet earlier this year. Issuing voluntary departures is planned to limit severance costs and maintain essential skills within the company. The Boeing spokesperson confirmed that cuts would affect both union and non-union workers, including those in the defense unit. The strike led by IAM workers is ongoing, with workers calling for Ortberg to join negotiations in person to reach a resolution.
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