Economist says UAW's strike strategy is "a dangerous thing" that could lead to the shutdown of more plants

United Auto Workers members walked off the job at three major automotive plants belonging to Ford, General Motors and Stellantis overnight, thrusting the automotive industry into uncertainty as workers demand higher wages and better working conditions.

The strategy of striking against all three automakers but at select plants — with the possibility of expanding the strike if necessary — is new for the union. 

Patrick Anderson, an economist, said such a tactic could have far-reaching consequences for the industry, potentially leading to the shutdown of more plants than initially intended.