To prevent strikes, automakers for years have not negotiated well with the UAW, basically signing bloated contracts, because sales were good.

Now, the story is different. High gas prices drove people away from gas guzzling pickups and SUV's, so the dealers are overloaded with new 2005 and 2006 vehicles. And they aren't selling, even with the 10 grand or more off MSRP giveaway deals. One local Ford Dealer had huge ads in last weeks paper. (2006) Explorers at 12 grand off MSRP, Lariats at 10 off, Expeditions at 15 off!

BTW..a local Toyota Dealer still has new 2004 Land Cruisers for sale...gas guzzlers are still gas guzzlers, regardless of who makes them.

Blame the UAW? NO! Blame the manufacturers...they signed the contracts. Now, to break or drastically reduce the UAW's influence...Ford, GM and DC are moving out of the US to save a buck...which also frees them from the EPA and Gov't watchdogs.

Meanwhile, the Japanese/German/Korean based Corporations are building or have built factories here...but none employee UAW workers.

It's not about Mexico, Canada or Bum Frick Egypt...it's about breaking the UAW.