The following statement from UAW Region 8 Director Gary Casteel is in response to Bob Corker’s upcoming press conference on the vote at the Chattanooga, Tenn. Volkswagen plant.

It's unfortunate that Bob Corker has been swayed by special interests from outside Tennessee to flip-flop on his position on what's best for Chattanooga's working families, said UAW Region 8 Director Gary Casteel, who directs the union’s organizing in the South. While outside interests and other politicians have been trying to impact the results of this vote -- which would give Volkswagen workers a voice to make VW stronger in safety, job security and efficiency, and improve the quality of life for everyone in Chattanooga -- we believe Corker was right in his original statement that this vote should be left to the workers.

Corker's original position as cited in the Chattanooga Times Free Press:

Earlier this week, Corker, a former Chattanooga mayor, said in a statement that he's holding his tongue on criticizing Volkswagen or UAW's organizing efforts until the election is held next week. During the next week and a half, while the decision is in the hands of the employees, I do not think it is appropriate for me to make additional public comment, Corker said earlier this week.