“In recent weeks, both the Boeing Co. and the IAM have publicly expressed a sincere willingness to resolve outstanding issues and remove all barriers – perceived and real – to customer reliability, allowing for continued and expanded operations of the 787 line in Everett.  However, this morning, the strained relationship between the Boeing Co. and the IAM and their inability to come to an agreement during their recent talks appears to have resulted in a deadlock.  Both parties have much to lose if talks are not resumed and a mutually beneficial agreement is not reached.  Moreover, the workers and employers beyond the aerospace industry will also be hard hit.
 
The Boeing Co. and the IAM have a record of historic successes through their long-term partnership.  And, the state of Washington and its local governments have done much on behalf of both sides to ensure these successes.  To that end, I have urged both parties to resume conversations immediately through the invitation extended by Sen. Murray.
 
In the event a successful conclusion cannot be reached, we must all recognize that the Boeing Company and the IAM will maintain a strong presence in the Puget Sound and throughout our state.  To go forward we all must understand why these two parties could not reach an agreement so we may all play a role in rebuilding this relationship and making Washington State the most competitive state in the union.”