ST. LOUIS, Oct. 3, 2025 — The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) has expressed support for Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) after he questioned Boeing’s chief labor counsel, Scott Mayer, about the ongoing contract dispute with more than 3,200 IAM District 837 members in St. Louis who have been on strike for nine weeks.
During a Capitol Hill exchange, Hawley addressed Mayer regarding the workers’ situation: “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 spoken out in favor of the striking workers. In early September, he told Missourinet that Boeing should resolve the dispute with union members: “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 figure representing a 10 percent increase compared to the previous year—while contract negotiations remain unresolved.
Talks between IAM District 837 and Boeing continue under federal mediation.
IAM International President Brian Bryant commented on behalf of union members: “We’re tired of Boeing hiding behind posturing and PR spin,” said 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 represents around 600,000 active and retired members across North America in industries such as aerospace, defense, airlines, shipbuilding, railroads, transit systems, healthcare services and automotive manufacturing.
