A large group of technology employees at the troubled New York Times may opt to stage a walkout on Tuesday if their employment demands are not met by the company.
The potential strike on Election Day could severely disrupt the newspaper’s reporting on the presidential election, following stalled discussions between the involved parties, as reported by the Wall Street Journal.
The union’s negotiating team communicated to the Times’ board of directors, urging them to step in, stating, “We have made it clear that we need to reach an agreement before the election in order to avert a strike.”
This action by the Guild, which represents software developers, data scientists, and design professionals at the renowned newspaper, represents a significant test of the union’s strength since its establishment in 2022, according to the report.
As per the union’s information, its members indicated a 95% support for a walkout in September if their demands are not addressed. These demands include job security amidst advancements in AI technology and equitable pay for female and minority union members.
Election Day, especially during a presidential election cycle, typically sees a dramatic increase in readership for news organizations, and a similar trend is anticipated on Tuesday due to the competitive race between former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris.
A representative for the Times expressed dissatisfaction to the Journal, criticizing the union’s deadline as “arbitrary” and suggesting that choosing Election Day “feels both unnecessary and at odds with our mission.”
Nevertheless, the spokesperson assured that the newspaper has “robust plans in place to ensure that we are able to fulfill our mission and serve our readers.”
Since its inception, the Guild has yet to secure a contract, though newspaper officials point out that its members are among the highest earners within the organization, with most enjoying six-figure incomes—averaging about $190,000 in compensation and stock options.
A spokesperson for the Times stated in an email on Sunday, “We look forward to continuing to work with the Tech Guild to reach a fair contract, that takes into account that they are already among the highest paid individual contributors in the Company and journalism is our top priority.”
They added, “We’re in one of the most consequential periods of coverage for our readers.”
{Matzav.com}
I fail to see the crisis
It might a great boon for honest voters if NYT is quiet on and around election day(s). Their biased BS adds nothing useful to the conversation
I hope they fold!
The upcoming EBS iy”H will replace all mainstream media globally for good.
Let’s hope they do strike and that it actually cripples the paper. The world will be a better place without the NYTimes. The election will certainly be more honest without it.