United Steel Workers Union Elects First Female President

Roxanne Brown has been elected as the new President of the United Steelworkers Union (USW), becoming the 10th person to hold the top job and the first woman and person of color to do so. She succeeds David McCall, who was promoted in 2023 after the death of Tom Conway.

Background and Experience

Brown has been a prominent figure in the union, serving as the International Vice President at Large, where she oversaw the union’s public policy, legislative agenda, and political work. She has spent over two decades advancing policies on Capitol Hill and with regulatory agencies on behalf of USW members. Brown has extensive experience in manufacturing, environmental, and energy policy, and has testified before the International Trade Commission, Capitol Hill, and state legislatures.

Challenges and Priorities

Brown's tenure will begin on March 1, 2026, and she will face significant challenges, including collective bargaining agreements at major companies like US Steel, Cleveland Cliffs, Goodyear, and Arconic, which are set to expire next year. She emphasizes the importance of a strong domestic steel industry, stating that "every great industrial-sized nation needs to have a strong domestic steel industry."

Economic and Safety Concerns

Brown is concerned about funding cuts to agencies like OSHA and the Chemical Safety Board, which ensure workplace safety. She advocates for policies that support working people and ensure that the union stands with those who support them. Brown also highlights the need for transparency and accountability in labor practices.

Union Representation

The USW represents approximately 8,000 workers in West Virginia, with major employers including Ravenswood Aluminum, Special Medals, Mardi Gras Casino, and Nippon Steel. Brown's leadership is expected to bring a fresh perspective and strong advocacy for workers' rights.