The auto strikes are probably — but not definitely — over. Here’s what comes next

The longest auto strike in the US in 25 years is almost over, with the United Auto Workers union reaching a tentative agreement on a contract with General Motors (GM), as well as similar agreements with Stellantis and Ford. The nearly 50,000 UAW members who have been on strike will soon be back at work, but there is still a possibility of the strike resuming if the rank-and-file members do not approve the deals. Unlike usual strike scenarios, workers at Ford returned to work to pressure GM and Stellantis to match the agreement. Although the reasons behind the return to work before the ratification process have not been revealed, it would have been difficult to keep the strikers out of work while workers at Ford and Stellantis were back on the job. If any of the companies' memberships vote against the deals, the strike could quickly resume, potentially with all members participating. The agreements offer significant financial incentives, including double-digit pay hikes, immediate raises, and the return of cost-of-living adjustments. However, in the past, rank-and-file members have rejected deals agreed upon by the union's leadership. Some members have expressed opposition to the deals, citing concerns over the benefits for senior workers and unmet demands, such as a traditional pension plan and retiree health care coverage. Despite criticism on social media, the average member's sentiment towards the deals remains unclear. UAW President Shawn Fain emphasized that the membership has the ultimate authority, but also highlighted the achievements made in the agreements.