After fits and starts the union essentially told Deere to stick it. In 2021, Deere workers struck for 34 days, gaining national press. “They’re trying to feel how unstable the union is when it comes to who wants what out of a contract,” said Pete Schaefer, from the Harvester Works in East Moline, Illinois. On July 29 the union’s Deere Council resolved to make a counter-offer. He thinks members should vote no, build a contract campaign for fall 2027, and brew momentum for May Day 2028.