"If the government is going to make this investment, it had better do it wisely," he said. "You can't successfully bail out out the companies without cutting pensions, health care and wages for the union. They should also fire the management. They need to reboot with a different structure including the unions.
"Obama's relationship with the union is complicated and will further complicate things if this drags out to January. That's why he's punting to Bush. He doesn't want this on his plate."
The UAW believes it has a friend in Obama, but would rather have the money secured now than have to wait for his inauguration.
"President-elect Obama has been very supportive and forthright in calling the industry the backbone of our economy. He has made it clear that he wants to move forward on fuel economy and hybrids," said Reuther.
"But, the big issue right now is whether Congress is going to require the Treasury Department to provide a bridge loan now. GM and Chrysler might not make it to an Obama administration. The companies can't wait for a President Obama, we need action now."
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