Building Political Power

CAPS, UAW Local 1115 is a part of UAW Region 6, and we have a seat on the UAW Region 6 Western States CAP/PAC Council’s Board that works to support pro-worker political initiatives and elect candidates who earn our endorsement. 

In 2026, voters will choose the next Governor of California. It’s critical for State Scientists to ensure a pro-State worker candidate who supports the priorities of working people and advances the issues we all care about is elected. That means:

• Prioritizing strong contracts that are honored by the Governor
• Justice in our workplaces
• Common sense workplace improvements, and
• Funding for scientific programs

Fellow members of CAPS-UAW have had a direct role in the UAW Region 6 endorsement process for Governor by reviewing candidate questionnaires, interviewing pro-worker candidates, and attending the California Federation of Labor Unions’ gubernatorial candidate events.

What is VCAP and Why it Matters

One of the most powerful tools we have is VCAP – the UAW’s Voluntary Community Action Program. VCAP is our union’s member-supported political action fund, made up of small voluntary contributions from UAW members across the country. Unlike our dues, VCAP dollars are kept separate and can only be used for political activities, like supporting pro-worker candidtes and ballot m easures that impact our jobs and communities.

Every contribution, no matter how small, adds up. Together we can:

• Build the political strength to support new organizing and protect our programs
• Elect candidates who fight for workers, science, public health and the environment
• Push back against anti-union attacks and corporate, billionaire influence in politics