WASHINGTON, D.C., June 4, 2026 — Apple (AAPL) continues to feel national political heat even as the tech giant’s stock has risen nearly 15% in 2026. 

Fifty-four members of the Congressional Labor Caucus, led by Co-Chairs and Reps. Mark Pocan (D-Wis.), Debbie Dingell (D-Mich.), Donald Norcross (D-N.J.), and Steven Horsford (D-Nev.), are calling on the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) to conduct a thorough investigation into Apple’s planned June 20 closure of its unionized Towson, Md., retail store, citing concerns that the company may be treating union workers differently than employees at other closing locations.

The lawmakers specifically pointed to Apple’s differing treatment of employees at three stores slated for closure.

“The Towson, Maryland location was the first Apple store in the country to unionize and secure a negotiated collective bargaining agreement with the company,” the letter to NLRB General Counsel Crystal Carey states. “We are alarmed that the company is making efforts to relocate employees at stores that have non-bargaining unit workers, while denying those same benefits to unionized locations.”

Carey formerly worked for Morgan Lewis, one of the largest management-side law firms that currently represents corporations known for violating workers’ rights, including Amazon, SpaceX, Apple and Tesla. 

The Towson Apple Store became the first Apple retail location in the United States to successfully unionize in 2022 and later secured a negotiated collective bargaining agreement with the company in August 2024. Apple recently announced plans to close the Towson location alongside stores in Trumbull, Conn., and Escondido, Calif.

In their closing request to the NLRB, lawmakers wrote: “Accordingly, we respectfully call on the NLRB to thoroughly investigate alleged practices, reach a timely resolution to this issue, ensure that workers’ rights and benefits are protected, and, if violations are identified, provide robust enforcement of labor law to make workers whole.”

Workers at the Towson store, represented by IAM Union (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers) Local 4538, have not been offered the same relocation opportunities being provided to employees at the non-union stores. Instead, they have been told to reapply for positions elsewhere within the company. The IAM Union has alleged that Apple’s actions violate the workers’ collective bargaining agreement and has filed an Unfair Labor Practice charge with the NLRB.

Apple Towson workers and IAM Union representatives were present on Capitol Hill today for a hearing examining the policies and priorities of the NLRB, where lawmakers discussed the agency’s role in protecting workers’ rights and enforcing federal labor law.

The Congressional Labor Caucus letter is the latest in a growing series of actions supporting Apple Towson workers. It follows a recent Congressional Progressive Caucus letter signed by 40 members of Congress, a separate letter from the Maryland congressional delegation, public support from Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, and a community rally in Towson that brought together elected officials, labor leaders, and local residents.

“The IAM Union thanks Reps. Pocan, Dingell, Norcross, Horsford, and the members of the Congressional Labor Caucus for standing with workers and demanding accountability,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “The facts here are deeply troubling. Apple is closing the first unionized Apple retail store in America while denying those workers opportunities being offered to employees at non-union locations. If one of the richest corporations in the world believes it can treat workers differently because they exercised their legal right to form a union, every working person in America should be paying attention. We appreciate the Congressional Labor Caucus for calling on the NLRB to fully investigate these allegations and ensure these workers receive the protections guaranteed under federal law.”

“The workers at Towson made history by organizing the first unionized Apple retail store in the country and negotiating a contract that guarantees equal treatment,” said IAM Union Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan. “Now they are being told they must reapply for jobs while workers at non-union stores are being offered relocation opportunities. That is a serious concern and one that deserves immediate scrutiny. We are grateful to the Congressional Labor Caucus for recognizing what is at stake and urging the NLRB to move quickly to protect workers’ rights and hold Apple accountable if violations occurred.”

The IAM Union will continue supporting Apple Towson workers as they fight for equal treatment, respect, and the enforcement of the rights guaranteed under federal labor law and their collective bargaining agreement.

The IAM Union (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers) represents approximately 600,000 active and retired members in aerospace, defense, airlines, shipbuilding, rail, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries across North America.

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WEST PLAINS, Mo., May 30, 2026 — Nearly 300 members of IAM Local 2782 (District 9) at Leonardo DRS have voted to ratify a new collective bargaining agreement, bringing an end to a difficult lockout while securing significant improvements in wages, benefits and paid time off.

The agreement provides for wage increases of 10% in the first year, 4% in the second year, 4% in the third year, 5% in the fourth year, and 5% in the fifth year, delivering a total compounded wage increase of more than 30% over the life of the contract. Members also secured protections that limit annual increases in insurance premiums to 5% per year, with no changes to healthcare copays.

The ratification follows weeks of solidarity and determination by IAM Union members, who remained united throughout the lockout while fighting for a contract that recognized the value of their skills, dedication, and contributions to national defense.

IAM Local 2782 members manufacture critical defense systems used by the U.S. military, including the M-SHORAD counter-drone and air defense system, battlefield surveillance technology, heavy assault bridging equipment, and fuel and water distribution systems that support military operations around the world.

Throughout the dispute, members remained focused on achieving a fair agreement that addressed key concerns surrounding wages, healthcare costs, and quality of life. The newly ratified contract represents significant progress in each of those areas and provides greater economic security for workers and their families.

“The solidarity shown by these members throughout this process was inspiring,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “They stood together through challenging circumstances, and their perseverance helped secure a collective bargaining agreement that recognizes the important work they perform every day. This victory demonstrates what is possible when workers remain united.”

“The members of Local 2782 never lost sight of the power of standing together,” said IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli. “They showed what solidarity means through their resilience, determination, and commitment to one another. This new contract represents more than meaningful economic gains — it lays the foundation for stronger working conditions, greater opportunities, and successful negotiations in the future.”

“These workers stood together and made their voices heard,” said IAM District 9 Business Representative BJ Wear. “Through their unity and determination, they secured meaningful gains that will improve the lives of members and their families. This ratification reflects the power of workers standing together and refusing to settle for less than they deserve.”

The ratification marks the successful conclusion of a contract battle that began when Leonardo DRS locked out IAM members on May 1 after members rejected the company’s initial proposal. Throughout the lockout, Local 2782 members remained united in their demand for a contract that addressed wages, healthcare costs, and quality-of-life issues while recognizing the critical role they play in supporting U.S. military readiness.

Their solidarity was evident on the picket lines and in successive contract votes, as members stood together in pursuit of an agreement that reflected the value of their work and their contributions to the company’s success and the missions it supports.

With the new agreement approved, members will return to work under a contract that delivers substantial economic improvements while establishing a strong foundation for future bargaining and continued progress.

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IAM Local 2782 members at Leonardo DRS’s West Plains facility manufacture a portfolio of critical U.S. Army systems, including fire support systems the Army has relied on since 1982; battlefield reconnaissance and surveillance platforms; heavy transport and mobility systems; fuel and water distribution equipment; and force protection technologies for armored vehicles. 

The IAM Union (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers) is one of North America’s largest and most diverse industrial trade unions, representing approximately 600,000 active and retired members in the aerospace, defense, airlines, shipbuilding, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries across the United States and Canada.

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WEST PLAINS, Mo., May 23, 2026 — Members of IAM Local 2782 at Leonardo DRS have voted today to reject the company’s latest contract offer, reaffirming their dedication to win a fair agreement that reflects the critical nature of the work they perform every day for the U.S. military.

The nearly 300 IAM members locked out at the West Plains facility manufacture some of the most essential defense systems in the American arsenal, including the M-SHORAD counter-drone and air defense system, battlefield surveillance technology, heavy assault bridging equipment, and fuel and water distribution systems that support U.S. combat forces in the field.

“Our members at Leonardo DRS have dedicated their careers to ensuring the men and women of our armed forces have what they need to complete their mission and come home safe,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “Leonardo DRS is profiting from record defense demand while locking out the very workers who make that possible. That is unacceptable, and we will stand with Local 2782 until this company comes back to the table and negotiates a fair contract.”

“Our members didn’t come to this decision lightly,” said IAM District 9 Business Representative BJ Wear. “Our members have given years to this company and to the service members who depend on what we build. Leonardo DRS is benefiting from surging demand and a nearly $1.5 trillion defense budget that specifically prioritizes the exact systems our members produce. There is no excuse for the company to offer a compensation package that doesn’t reflect that reality.”

Leonardo DRS, which partners with L3Harris, Moog, Northrop Grumman, and General Dynamics on integrated defense systems, including the Stryker-based M-SHORAD platform, has seen backlog and revenue grow rapidly, particularly in the Middle East region.

“The members of Local 2782 are skilled, dedicated workers who manufacture systems that protect American lives on the battlefield,” said IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli. “Leonardo DRS has every resource it needs to put a deal on the table that our members will support. The Midwest Territory stands fully behind these members, and we expect this company to make a stronger offer.”

IAM International President Bryant sent letters to Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe and U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley, urging both officials to stand with members of IAM Local 2782 at Leonardo DRS 

Read the letter to Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe

Read the letter to U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley

IAM Local 2782 calls on Leonardo DRS to end the lockout, return to negotiations, and reach a fair contract now.

IAM Local 2782 members at Leonardo DRS’s West Plains facility manufacture a portfolio of critical U.S. Army systems, including fire support systems the Army has relied on since 1982; battlefield reconnaissance and surveillance platforms; heavy transport and mobility systems; fuel and water distribution equipment; and force protection technologies for armored vehicles. 

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WASHINGTON, D.C., May 21, 2026 — The IAM Union today applauded the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee for passing an amendment to include the Railway Safety Act (RSA) in the BUILD America 250 Act, marking a major step forward in the fight to strengthen freight rail safety protections for railroad workers and communities nationwide.

For years, the IAM Union, Transportation Communications Union (TCU/IAM) and rail labor unions have warned lawmakers and regulators about deteriorating safety conditions caused by aggressive cost-cutting, understaffing, longer trains, and unsafe operating practices imposed by Class I freight railroad carriers. Those concerns were sadly confirmed on Feb. 3, 2023 when a Norfolk Southern train derailed in the small town of East Palestine, Ohio, and tank cars loaded with toxic chemicals were set aflame, polluting the area for many miles. 

The legislation advances long-overdue reforms aimed at protecting railroad workers, first responders, and the tens of millions of Americans living near freight rail corridors, just like the residents of East Palestine. 

The Railway Safety Act amendment includes provisions that:

• Require railroads to properly use wayside defect detectors and stop trains when dangerous defects are identified
• Prohibits arbitrary railroad-imposed time limits on rail safety inspections
• Closes loopholes in regulations to promote and protect the use of qualified mechanical inspectors in performing critical safety inspections
• Expands enhanced safety requirements for hazardous materials shipments
• Requires two-person crews on most Class I freight trains, including those carrying hazardous materials
• Improves emergency response information and resources for communities and first responders
• Strengthens federal freight rail safety oversight and accountability measures

The unions also thanked U.S. Reps. Troy Nehls (R-Texas), Chris Deluzio (D-Pa.), Rob Bresnahan (R-Pa.), Dina Titus (D-Nev.), Jeff Van Drew (R-N.J.), and Emilia Sykes (D-Ohio) for leading the bipartisan amendment effort in the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.

The IAM Union and TCU/IAM recognized the Trump Administration for making rail safety legislation a priority and Vice President JD Vance for introducing and championing the Railway Safety Act while serving in the United States Senate following the East Palestine derailment disaster.

“Today’s committee vote is a major victory for railroad workers and communities that have spent years demanding action while Class I rail carriers prioritized profits over safety,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “Our members know firsthand the dangers created by rushed inspections, reduced staffing and unsafe operating practices. This legislation represents meaningful progress toward finally putting safety first across the freight rail industry.”

“This legislation reflects years of advocacy from frontline railroad workers who have continued sounding the alarm about dangerous conditions across the industry,” said TCU/IAM National President Matt Hollis. “Railroaders deserve the staffing levels, inspection protections and safety standards necessary to safely operate the nation’s freight rail network.”

“For too long, freight rail carriers have pushed unsafe operating models that place enormous pressure on workers while putting communities at risk,” said Josh Hartford, IAM Special Assistant to the International President for the IAM Rail Division. “This legislation addresses many of the systemic safety failures rail labor has warned about for years.”

“Railroad workers have fought tirelessly for these protections because they understand what is at stake every day on the job,” said IAM District 19 President and Directing General Chair Reece Murtagh. “This committee vote sends a strong message that Congress is finally listening to the workers who keep this industry moving.”

The IAM Union and TCU/IAM urged Congress to continue advancing the Railway Safety Act through the legislative process and called on lawmakers in both parties to support final passage.

The IAM Union (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers) represents approximately 600,000 active and retired members in aerospace, defense, airlines, shipbuilding, rail, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries across North America. 

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The IAM Union (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers) and Transportation Communications Union (TCU/IAM) are standing in full solidarity with IAM and TCU/IAM members on strike at the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), alongside fellow union workers in a coalition representing 3,500 railroad employees.

The strike began at 12:01 a.m. Saturday, May 16 after years of stalled negotiations, four years without raises for many workers, and repeated failures by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) and LIRR management to reach a fair agreement.

“Our members kept Long Island moving through every challenge thrown at this railroad, and they deserve dignity, respect and a fair contract,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “The MTA and LIRR had every opportunity to settle this dispute and avoid a strike. Instead, they chose delays, concessions and disrespect. The IAM Union stands shoulder to shoulder with our members and every worker on the picket line. We have their backs for as long as it takes.”

The coalition of unions has said workers are seeking a contract that keeps pace with the rising cost of living on Long Island after years without raises, despite recommendations from federal panels supporting wage increases.

“TCU/IAM members did not want to be forced into this position, but management left workers with no other choice,” said TCU/IAM National President Matt Hollis. “Our members show up every day to keep this railroad running safely and efficiently for hundreds of thousands of commuters. They deserve a contract that respects their work and recognizes the sacrifices they have made. We will remain united until a fair agreement is reached.”

The Long Island Rail Road is the busiest commuter railroad in the United States, serving roughly 300,000 daily riders. This marks the first strike at the carrier in more than three decades.

“Our IAM Rail Division members and our brothers and sisters across this coalition have bargained in good faith throughout this entire process,” said Josh Hartford, IAM Special Assistant to the International President for the IAM Rail Division. “The responsibility for this strike falls squarely on MTA and LIRR management. We are proud to stand with our members on the picket line.”

The IAM Union is encouraging the public and labor allies across the country to support striking LIRR workers as they continue their fight for a fair contract.

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WEST PLAINS, Mo., May 11, 2026 – The IAM Union (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers) is calling on Leonardo DRS to immediately end its lockout of more than 285 IAM Local 2782 (District 9) members in West Plains, Mo., and return to the bargaining table with a commitment to reach a fair agreement that respects workers.

IAM Local 2782 (District 9)-represented workers were locked out by the company after voting to reject a proposed contract that failed to provide fair wage increases and unsustainable (or unworkable) increases in healthcare costs. Workers were sent home with pay prior to the contract’s expiration, and the company officially began the lockout at 12:00 a.m. on Friday, May 1, following the contract’s expiration.

Members had also voted to authorize a strike if a fair contract reflecting their needs was not reached.

“These workers showed up in good faith, ready to negotiate a contract that reflects their value and contributions,” said IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli. “Instead of working toward a fair contract, the company chose to lock them out. That is unacceptable. The IAM Union is calling on Leonardo DRS to end this lockout immediately and return to negotiations with a commitment to reaching a fair agreement that respects these workers and the critical work they perform.”

“IAM Local 2782 members are united and determined to secure a contract that reflects their worth,” said IAM District 9 Directing Business Representative Jason Tetidrick. “Locking out these workers only delays progress and puts unnecessary strain on working families in this community. The path forward is clear: end the lockout, respect these workers, and negotiate a fair agreement.”

“Our members made it clear that the proposal on the table did not meet their needs,” said IAM District 9 Business Representative BJ Wear. “Rather than addressing those concerns, the company escalated the situation by locking them out. This is about fairness, fair wages, affordable benefits, and reasonable working conditions. We are ready to get back to the table and reach an agreement, but it takes a real commitment from the company to do so.”

The IAM Union stands firmly with Local 2782 members and urges Leonardo DRS to end the lockout and engage in meaningful negotiations that deliver a fair contract for workers.

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KANSAS CITY, Mo. – After weeks on the picket line, IAM Union Local 778 members have voted to ratify a new collective bargaining agreement with Olin Corporation’s Winchester division, officially ending their strike that began on April 4.

The agreement was approved by the membership on Wednesday, May 6, marking a victory for the more than 1,300 skilled workers at the Lake City Army Ammunition Plant who stood united in their fight for improved wages, better working conditions, and relief from excessive overtime.

IAM Local 778 members return to work starting on the day shift, Thursday, May 7, bringing the end to a strike that drew national attention and underscored the essential role these workers play in supporting U.S. military readiness.

“This ratified agreement met the needs of our membership and they are ready to get back to work under these new terms,” said IAM Local 778 Directing Business Representative Scott Brown. “Our members fought for a contract that includes improvements to pay and relief to mandatory overtime scheduling.”

“Our members stood up and fought for fairness,” said IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli. “They walked the picket line day and night, advocating for every worker in the plant for relief from excessive overtime to improve their work-life balance.”

“I am proud of these members for their courage and sacrifice,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “The members of IAM Local 778 took the necessary action to make their workplace better and make each other’s lives better. ”

Details of the new contract include front-loaded wage increases over the course of the four-year agreement and some relief from forced overtime. Union leaders say the agreement represents meaningful progress and a foundation for continued improvements.

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AGUADILLA, P.R., May 5, 2026 – IAM Union-represented Lufthansa Technik workers in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, have ratified their first collective bargaining agreement, securing job protections, a signing bonus, wage increases, and improved benefits.

The agreement, covering more than 200 aircraft mechanics and related workers, follows nearly four years of negotiations driven by strong member advocacy and solidarity. The first contract establishes a solid foundation of rights, pay, benefits, and working conditions that workers can continue to build on in future bargaining.

Throughout negotiations, IAM Union leadership worked closely with the bargaining committee and membership to ensure workers’ voices remained front and center and to push the process forward despite delays.

“This first contract wasn’t given to these workers – it was earned through their unity, determination, and refusal to back down,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “Lufthansa Technik Puerto Rico workers didn’t wait for change – they organized for it, fought for it, and won it.”

“For Lufthansa Technik workers in Aguadilla, this first contract represents long-awaited progress after years of standing together,” said IAM Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen. “It’s a strong example of what solidarity and sustained pressure can achieve.”

Read: IAM Air Transport Territory Visits Lufthansa Technik Workers in Puerto Rico and Reaffirms Commitment as Contract Talks Resume

“This shows what’s possible when workers organize and stay involved,” said Tom Regan IAM Special Assistant to the International President. “Wages, benefits, and protections don’t improve by chance – they come through a union contract. 

“This first contract is just the beginning,” said IAM District 142 President and Directing General Chair John Coveny. “It’s a living document that gives our members a real voice on the job today – and the power to keep building stronger protections, better pay, and greater respect in every round of bargaining moving forward.”

“Our members never lost sight of what they were fighting for,” said IAM Special Assistant to the International President Juan Negron. “They stood strong through every challenge, and today’s ratification shows the result of that unity.”

For workers on the shop floor, this first contract represents long-awaited progress after years of standing together.

“This agreement shows what we can accomplish when we stay united,” said the IAM Lufthansa Technik Negotiating Committee. “We fought for respect, better conditions, and a voice – and this is a big step forward for all of us, our families and the entire Puerto Rico.”

IAM members at Lufthansa Technik Puerto Rico voted to join the union in 2022, seeking fair wages, improved working conditions, and a voice on the job. Since then, negotiations were marked by delays, prompting the IAM to seek federal mediation in 2023 and rally support locally and internationally.

In December 2025, workers overwhelmingly rejected a decertification effort backed by anti-union forces, reaffirming their commitment to the IAM and sending a clear message that they were united in their fight for a fair contract.

Trabajadores de Lufthansa Technik Puerto Rico representados por la Unión IAM ratifican su primer convenio colectivo, asegurando importantes avances tras años de unidad

AGUADILLA, P.R., 5 de mayo de 2026 – Los trabajadores de Lufthansa Technik en Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, representados por la Unión IAM (Asociación Internacional de Maquinistas y Trabajadores de la Industria Aeroespacial), han ratificado su primer convenio colectivo, que asegura protecciones laborales, un bono de firma, aumentos salariales y mejores beneficios.

El convenio, que cubre a más de 200 mecánicos de aeronaves y trabajadores relacionados, llega tras casi cuatro años de negociaciones impulsadas por la fuerte defensa de los miembros y su solidaridad. Este primer contrato establece una base sólida de derechos, salarios, beneficios y condiciones laborales sobre la cual los trabajadores podrán seguir construyendo en futuras negociaciones.

Durante todo el proceso, el liderazgo de la IAM trabajó estrechamente con el comité de negociaciones y la matrícula para asegurar que las voces de los trabajadores se mantuvieran como prioridad e impulsar el proceso a pesar de los retrasos.

“Este primer convenio colectivo no les fue regalado a estos trabajadores; lo ganaron con su unidad, su determinación y su convicción de no rendirse”, dijo el Presidente Internacional de la IAM, Brian Bryant. “Los trabajadores de Lufthansa Technik Puerto Rico no esperaron el cambio: se organizaron, lucharon y lo lograron”.

“Para los trabajadores de Lufthansa Technik en Aguadilla, este primer contrato representa un progreso esperado por años tras mantenerse unidos”, dijo el Vicepresidente General de Territorio de Transporte Aéreo de la IAM, Richie Johnsen. “Es un claro ejemplo de lo que la solidaridad y la presión sostenida pueden lograr”.

Lea: El Territorio de Transporte Aéreo de la IAM visita a los trabajadores de Lufthansa Technik en Puerto Rico y reafirma su compromiso mientras se reanudan las negociaciones de convenio colectivo

“Esto demuestra lo que es posible cuando los trabajadores se organizan y se mantienen involucrados”, dijo el Asistente Especial del Presidente Internacional de la IAM, Tom Regan. “Los salarios, beneficios y protecciones no mejoran por casualidad; se logran a través de un contrato de la unión.

“Este primer contrato es solo el comienzo”, dijo el Presidente y Director General del Distrito 142 de la IAM, John Coveny. “Es un documento vivo que le da a la matrícula una voz real en el trabajo hoy y el poder de seguir construyendo protecciones más fuertes, mejores salarios y mayor respeto en cada ronda de negociación en el futuro”.

“Nuestros miembros nunca perdieron de vista por lo que estaban luchando”, dijo el Asistente Especial del Presidente Internacional de la IAM, Juan Negron. “Se mantuvieron firmes ante cada desafío y la ratificación de hoy demuestra el resultado de esa unidad”.

Para los trabajadores en el taller, este primer contrato representa un progreso esperado tras años de mantenerse unidos.

“Este convenio demuestra lo que podemos lograr cuando permanecemos unidos”, dijo el Comité de Negociaciones de la IAM en Lufthansa Technik. “Luchamos por respeto, mejores condiciones y una voz, y este es un gran paso adelante para todos nosotros, nuestras familias y todo Puerto Rico”.

Los miembros de la IAM en Lufthansa Technik Puerto Rico votaron para unirse a la unión en 2022, buscando salarios justos, mejores condiciones laborales y una voz en el trabajo. Desde entonces, las negociaciones estuvieron marcadas por retrasos, lo que llevó a la IAM a solicitar mediación federal en 2023 y a movilizar apoyo a nivel local e internacional.

En diciembre de 2025, los trabajadores rechazaron abrumadoramente un intento de descertificación respaldado por fuerzas antisindicales, reafirmando su compromiso con la IAM y enviando un mensaje claro de unidad en su lucha por un convenio justo.

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La Unión IAM (Asociación Internacional de Maquinistas y Trabajadores de la Industria Aeroespacial) es una de las uniones industriales más grandes y diversas de Norteamérica, con aproximadamente 600,000 miembros activos y jubilados en las industrias de aeroespacial, defensa, aerolíneas, ferrocarril, transporte, salud, automotriz, entre otras.

goIAM.org | @IAM_Union

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HOLLYWOOD, Md., May 5, 2026 – The IAM Union (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers) officially launched its “Workers vs. Billionaires” campaign with a high-energy kickoff rally led by International President Brian Bryant at the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center in Hollywood, Md. The launch date coincides with the IAM’s founding on May 5, 1888, 138 years ago.

The event marks the beginning of a coordinated series of mobilization efforts across all IAM territories and departments in the months leading up to the midterm elections. Hundreds of IAM members, labor leaders, and community allies gathered both in person and online to rally around a unified message: working people are done being left behind in an economy dominated by corporate greed.

Watch the live feed here.

“Today, we are living through the greatest concentration of wealth in history,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “A small group of people has accumulated more money than entire national economies, and they are using it to buy politicians, break unions, offshore jobs, and gut the regulations that protect working families.”

Read International President Bryant’s “Workers vs. Billionaires” op-ed in the Southern Maryland News here.

The kickoff event was held on the IAM Union’s birthday, founded in a locomotive pit by 19 railroad workers who took a stand against industry tycoons in the Gilded Age, creating one of the world’s most influential labor unions.

Again, the IAM is taking up the fight for working people in an economy controlled by elites but powered by labor.

View photos here.

Bryant delivered a powerful address that underscored the urgency of the campaign and the growing economic divide facing working families.

Other rally speakers included Maryland State and DC AFL-CIO President Donna Edwards, Washington Metropolitan Labor Council Secretary-Treasurer Samuel Epps, IAM Human Rights Director Nicole Fears, and Kevin Gallagher, a former IAM-represented Apple retail store worker from the closing Towson store who now serves as an IAM District 4 organizer.

“We’re celebrating 138 years of this union, a growing power, saving workers and making life better,” said Maryland State and DC AFL-CIO President Donna Edwards. “Nothing has ever been given to labor. We have fought for everything: safer work conditions, time off, overtime pay, benefits, and sick leave. Everything has to be a fight, and then we do win. Over those 138 years of the IAM Union and over the couple of centuries that labor has been fighting, we fight together. In all of our unions, you never stand alone. You never fight alone. We are in this together.”

“Apple made $94 billion in profit last year, and they can’t afford to let their workers have a voice, they cannot afford dignity, fair wages, and safe working conditions,” said Maryland State and DC AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Samuel Epps. “That’s not a business decision, that’s a power grab. Here is what they forget and what we are here today to remind them: you cannot close the movement. You can shut down the store but you can’t shut us up. History is always on our side–the side of workers.” 

“When I organized my workplace, I knew it was going to be a fight,” said Kevin Gallagher, a former IAM-represented Apple retail worker from the closing Towson store who now serves as an IAM District 4 organizer. “I knew that Apple was the world’s most profitable company. I knew that they had all the money in the world to fight us, but what I do know after organizing and winning twice is that when we organize, we win!”

The IAM’s Workers vs. Billionaires campaign aims to mobilize IAM members and allies in every community where the union operates, focusing on issues such as fair wages, strong labor protections, retirement security, and the right to organize. The campaign will also highlight the vast economic imbalance in the United States, where CEOs earn, on average, 285 times more than the typical worker and received an average raise of $1.24 million last year.

The event was livestreamed on the IAM Union’s Facebook page, allowing members across North America—from job sites to picket lines—to participate in the launch.

As the campaign moves forward, the IAM Union is expected to host dozens of rallies, actions, and organizing events to build worker power and hold corporations accountable.

“Billionaires have the money, but we have the people,” said Bryant. “They have the lobbyists, but we have the votes. They have the politicians, but we have each other — and that is why we will win.”

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TOWSON, Md., May 4, 2026 – The IAM Union (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers) commends the Maryland congressional delegation, led by U.S. Rep Johnny Olszewski and joined by U.S. Sens. Chris Van Hollen and Angela Alsobrooks, as well as U.S. Reps. Steny Hoyer, Jamie Raskin, Glenn Ivey, Kweisi Mfume, Sarah Elfreth and April McClain Delaney for standing with working people and demanding accountability following Apple’s decision to close its unionized retail store at Towson Town Center in Towson, Md., effective June 20, 2026. 

Read the Maryland congressional delegation letter to Apple here.

The Towson store is the first unionized Apple retail location in the United States, where workers are represented by the IAM Union. 

“We urge Apple to reconsider whether there are viable paths forward that would preserve jobs and maintain a retail presence in the region,” said the signing members in a letter to Apple. “Maryland residents value employers who invest in their workforce and demonstrate a sustained commitment to the communities they serve. We stand ready to engage constructively with Apple to better understand this decision and to explore potential solutions.”

The IAM Union has filed an Unfair Labor Practice (ULP) charge with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), citing discriminatory treatment against unionized workers at the Towson store. Unlike workers at two other closing stores, Apple is prohibiting its unionized Towson employees from having transfer rights to other stores. 

The store employs nearly 90 workers, provides critical access to Apple products and technical support for students, working families, and small businesses, and serves as a vital retail and service hub for the Baltimore region.

“We praise the Maryland congressional delegation for having these workers’ backs and demanding answers from Apple,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “These workers made history by exercising their right to organize for a voice on the job. Walking away from them now sends a dangerous message to working people everywhere.”

The IAM Union welcomes Maryland lawmakers’ decision to press Apple for answers and to intervene on behalf of these workers, who now face uncertainty about their futures. The union is seeking a clear explanation of the company’s decision, including whether alternatives such as relocation within the Baltimore region or other operational adjustments were seriously considered.

Despite being located in a strong-performing market and having recently expanded its workforce, Apple says it is moving forward with the closure, with no plans to reopen or relocate in the Baltimore area.

The IAM Union remains committed to supporting Towson Apple workers as they navigate the consequences of Apple’s egregious decision and will continue advocating for fair treatment, transparency, and respect for workers’ rights.

The IAM Union (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers) represents approximately 600,000 active and retired members in aerospace, defense, airlines, shipbuilding, rail, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries across North America.

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