WLWT: Auto workers' strike could lead to more inflation
UC economist says consumers likely will be affected if there's a prolonged strike
The United Auto Workers are launching a “targeted” strike, which could cause new and used car prices to significantly increase, a University of Cincinnati economist told WLWT.
Michael Jones, PhD, Carl H. Lindner College of Business assistant professor of economics
The UAW called for a strike against select plants after negotiations with General Motors, Ford and Stellantis failed to reach a new contract for workers. The workers are seeking increased pay, better pensions and a 32-hour work week.
If the strike lasts longer than several days, consumers likely will feel the effects, said Michael Jones, PhD, Carl H. Lindner College of Business assistant professor of economics and academic director of the Kautz-Uible Economic Institute.
“I think you will see significant impact on prices for both new cars and used cars,” Jones said. “That's bad news for inflation after that period of time or we finally got a lot of it under control.”
Featured image at top: Factory workers working in an assembly line. Photo/gerenme via iStock
Impact Lives Here
The University of Cincinnati is leading public urban universities into a new era of innovation and impact. Our faculty, staff and students are saving lives, changing outcomes and bending the future in our city's direction. Next Lives Here.
Related Stories
How aerospace is turning to trustworthy AI
January 6, 2026
UC College of Engineering and Applied Science graduate Lynn Pickering talks to the Ohio Federal Research Network about her research into artificial intelligence and the future of AI in aerospace engineering.
UC's art collection on display at the Contemporary Arts Center
January 5, 2026
University of Cincinnati leaders joined WVXU's Cincinnati Edition to talk about the university’s 200-year-old art collection, a new exhibition at the Contemporary Arts Center and the release of a companion book exploring the collection’s role in education and public engagement.
UC faculty and staff among Rising Star leadership honorees
January 5, 2026
Two UC faculty and staff members are among this year's Rising Star leadership program sponsored by YWCA Greater Cincinnati. Kelli Beecher, assistant professor in the UC College of Nursing, and Brittany Bibb, assistant director of programs and operations in the UC Division of Student Affairs, are among the emerging leaders of 2026. They were featured in the publication Movers & Makers.