In last speech as UAW president Gettelfinger says fight goes on for easier union organizing

Gettelfinger says organizing fight will go on

DETROIT — United Auto Workers President Ron Gettelfinger says the union will continue to fight for federal card-check legislation that would make it easier for workers to organize.

In his last speech after eight years as president, Gettelfinger also urged members to back union-friendly candidates in the November election.

Gettelfinger got a warm ovation from thousands of union members gathered in Detroit for the UAW’s quadrennial convention. Members elect a new president later this week.

Gettelfinger acknowledged that UAW members made big sacrifices in their latest contract talks. But he said they preserved the union despite the bankruptcies of General Motors and Chrysler.

He also says the U.S. auto industry is on the upswing again.