TN senator Corker ties UAW to Detroit problems

US Sen. Bob Corker (R-TN) ties Detroit's problems to the United Auto Workers. The UAW is trying to organize Volkswagen workers in Chattnooga.

From the Chattanooga Times Free Press:

Corker, a former Chattanooga mayor, said in a phone interview there's "no doubt the UAW had an increasingly negative effect" on Detroit.

"It's really sad," he said. "Anyone who visits the city can see the devastating effects. At one time it was a booming city. The anti-business climate continued to build on itself over time. That kept any business from wanting to locate there."

Corker recalled a 2011 dinner with then-Tennessee Gov. Phil Bredesen during the annual auto show at a Detroit hotel. He said it was after 9:30 p.m. and the maitre d' had to ask the union steward if it was OK for staff to serve the group.

"The hotel was doing great. Employees were receiving a lot of tips. It was literally one of the biggest nights of the year," Corker said. "I don't think people fully appreciate the effect the UAW has created in the city."

On the other hand, Pat Quinn, governor of broke Illinois, traveled to Detroit two years ago to pander to the UAW, a big supporter during his 2010 campaign.