Missouri Senator Josh Hawley has criticized Boeing’s approach to ongoing labor negotiations with the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) District 837, whose members have been on strike in St. Louis for nine weeks.
During a Capitol Hill exchange with Boeing’s chief labor counsel, Scott Mayer, Hawley highlighted concerns about the company’s compensation practices amid the labor dispute. “With 3,000 plus residents of my state on strike, unable to work, unable to get healthcare while your CEO is getting paid 30-some million dollars,” said Hawley. “Fairness may be elusive, but that doesn’t look like fairness to me.”
Hawley has previously voiced support for IAM District 837 members. In early September, he told Missourinet that Boeing should resolve the situation: “Management here needs to suck it up and get this thing over with,” said Hawley. “That company is so important to our state, the jobs that it provides, the great things that it produces.”
Boeing’s Defense, Space & Security division reported $6.6 billion in revenue for the second quarter of fiscal year 2025—a 10% increase compared to last year—while contract talks continue without resolution.
Negotiations between IAM District 837 and Boeing are ongoing under federal mediation. The union maintains that recent proposals from Boeing do not meet basic standards of fairness or dignity.
“We’re tired of Boeing hiding behind posturing and PR spin,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “Our members build the jets and defense systems that keep this nation safe, and they deserve a deal that reflects their sacrifice, expertise and value. Boeing’s repeated lowball proposals are a slap in the face to the men and women who power their bottom line. The time for grandstanding is over. Negotiate in good faith now, Boeing.”
The IAM Union represents around 600,000 active and retired workers across North America in industries including aerospace, defense, airlines, shipbuilding, railroads, transit systems, healthcare services and automotive manufacturing.
