John Deere’s financial record in the UAW’s view clarifies why workers believe they deserve an equal voice in decisions about the contract. “Deere made nearly $5 billion in profit in 2025 and expects to make another $4.5 billion to $5 billion this year. Last year, the company spent $1.1 billion buying back its own stock and paid shareholders $1.7 billion in dividends, with another $7.9 billion set aside for future stock buybacks. Meanwhile, CEO John May received $27.9 million in total compensation in 2025,” the UAW said in a statement

“Our members see billions going to shareholders through dividends and stock buybacks, said UAW Vice President Laura Dickerson, Agricultural Implement Department Director, “while the workers whose skill and labor make those profits possible are asked to accept less. Our members know their value and said NO to their offer.” [Well, the formal UAW name is: The International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America – AutoCrat.]