Whirlpool Layoffs: The Fight to Save Union Manufacturing in Amana, Iowa

Are the glory days of Midwest manufacturing being dismantled piece by piece? Whirlpool’s latest job cuts in Amana, Iowa, are more than just business adjustments—they are a wake-up call for the American labor movement. In this episode, we sit down with IAM Union leaders and a 30-year plant veteran to discuss the steady erosion of one of Iowa’s most vital manufacturing hubs. From a peak of 3,000 workers to well under 1,000 today, we explore how attrition, line removals and offshoring are hollowing out the community of Amana. Inside this episode: The Reality of the Cuts: How 350+ recent layoffs are affecting local families and suppliers. The "Warehouse" Strategy: Why union leaders fear the plant is being transitioned away from production. Tax Incentives vs. Offshoring: A hard look at the $70 million in public support Whirlpool received while expanding production in Mexico. The Call for Accountability: What the IAM Union is doing to demand answers from elected officials. Guests: Sam Cicinelli – IAM Union Midwest Territory General Vice President Todd “Kerry” Waddell – IAM Union District 6 Assisting Business Representative Sandy Freytag – IAM Union Member & 32-year Whirlpool Veteran