Corker: State 're-engaged' in talks over SUV for Chattanooga

photo U.S. Sen. Bob Corker, R-Tenn., is shown in this file photo.

U.S. Sen. Bob Corker said today that the state has "re-engaged" in negotiations with Volkswagen over locating production for a new sport utility vehicle in Chattanooga.

"I know [Volkswagen officials] want to get that behind them very quickly," the Tennessee Republican said in a news conference a day after Chattanooga plant workers turned back a United Auto Workers organizing effort.

Corker said he plans to have conversations with VW leadership next week related to the SUV production issue.

"Hopefully, based on assurances we've been given, that will all work out," Corker said.

Putting assembly of the SUV in Chattanooga could lead to hundreds of new jobs and potentially hundreds of millions of dollars in new investment at the plant.

Corker also lauded plant workers concerning the union vote, and he defended his actions this week.

Last Wednesday, the former Chattanooga mayor said VW appears ready to add the second vehicle line in the city should workers reject the UAW.

See Sunday's Times Free Press for more.

Upcoming Events