Obama's anti right-to-work remarks draw cheers at Detroit Diesel

By Robin Schwartz
Fox 2 News

REDFORD, Mich. (WJBK) -- "What we shouldn't be doing is trying to take away your rights to bargain for better wages and working conditions," President Obama said Monday as a crowd of about 1,500 auto workers erupted in cheers inside Detroit Diesel in Redford.

It appears Michigan is about to become the 24th right-to-work state, and the president made it clear he opposes the idea.

"These so-called right-to-work laws, they don't have to do with economics.  They have everything to do with politics.  What they're really talking about is giving you the right to work for less money," said Obama.

The president also talked about the country's economic troubles as we inch closer to the so-called fiscal cliff.

In the midst of all the turmoil, the president did bring some good news to workers.  He announced that Daimler will invest $120 million at the facility and add 150 new jobs.

Detroit Diesel has built more than five million engines since 1938.  The company currently has 2,300 workers, one of whom got a special shout out from the president.  Willy Carter, also known as "Pretty Willy", will mark his 60th year working at the plant this week.

"He's committed to family.  He's committed to community.  He's committed to country.  That's how Willy lives his life," Obama said.

The 85-year-old said meeting President Obama was the highlight of his unbelievable career.  A celebration for Carter is planned for Wednesday.