I agree that the unions have an adverse affect on the US Auto industry but the problem can't be squarely on their shoulders alone; management has given the unions all of this stuff, rather than stand and fight, the companies surrendered. Short term profit became more important than long term prosperity and over the years the culmination of all of the benefits have broken the bank. The latest Big 3 offer to let the unions manage their own 'pension funds' was a start to get the companies out of the unions' business but because of the high price of gas and the economic meltdown, it's almost certain that some money from somewhere is going to be needed to shore up the industry. I think there is so much profit in the automotive industry that many sins get covered up, on both sides, Union and Management, mismanagement is the major reason for the predicament we're in today.