UAW leader satisfied with bailout progress

WASHINGTON, Dec. 7 (UPI) -- The president of the United Automobile Workers said Sunday he is optimistic Congress will approve a bailout plan for U.S. automakers this week.

In an appearance on ABC's "This Week" program, UAW President Ron Gettelfinger said without a rescue General Motors, Ford Motor Co. and Chrysler could collapse.

"We would not have been in Washington if we didn't need assistance in the industry. And I fear a collapse of General Motors and possibly Chrysler. And it could have a very negative impact on Ford," Gettelfinger said.

A vote on a $15 billion aid package for the auto companies is expected this week.

As for whether President-elect Barack Obama has done enough to help forge an agreement in Congress, Gettelfinger said the union is "satisfied" with progress being made.

"I respect the leadership in the Congress, and I know they're working very hard with the administration. President-elect Obama has made it clear that we can only have one president in power at a time. I'm sure he's keeping his hand on the pulse of what's going on here. And I'm sure that he is, behind the scenes, having some input," he said.