MSM: Boeing workers are ready for a long strike

Boeing workers are prepared for a long strike

It’s high noon in Seattle and hundreds of Boeing workers are turning up for their shifts.

But they’re not heading into the factory – they’re checking in for picket line duty. The 27,000 members of the Aerospace Machinist’s Union have been off the job for 47 days now – the third longest strike in Boeing’s history.

The key sticking point is a plan by Boeing to allow outside contractors greater access to the plant, enabling them to deliver components directly onto the production line. Workers say that’s a union busting plan that threatens their jobs.