Two Ohio lawmakers have reacted to Ultium Cells in Lordstown's refusal to recognize cards signed by employees to join the United Auto Workers (UAW) Union.

Democratic U.S. Senator, Sherrod Brown told 21 News he had called up Ultium himself to express his disappointment in the refusal. 

Additionally, Senator Brown released a statement expressing support for Ultium workers looking to unionize. The statement reads as follows:

"A majority of workers have already decided to be represented by UAW. The best way for Ultium's battery plant to be successful is to voluntarily recognize the union and work collaboratively with them."

"These are Ohio workers who made Lordstown one of General Motors' most productive plants. That's because UAW workers are the best in the world at what they do and have a long history in the Valley. Ultium's success hinges on these skilled workers' historic expertise in the automotive industry."

"I'll always stand with Ohio workers exersizing their legal right to organize for a voice on the job, and will always encourage companies to remain neutral, voluntarily recognize the union and work with these workers who know these jobs and know the auto industry. It is time for Ultium to recognize the union."

Additionally, Valley Congressman and U.S. Senate candidate, Tim Ryan released a statement of his own in support of Ultium workers. The statement reads as follows:

“I stand with the workers employed at Ultium’s battery plant— a majority of whom have decided to unionize as part of the United Auto Workers. The auto industry was built on the backs of UAW workers here in the Valley."

"If we want to give our workers a fighting chance at leading this industry into the future once again, it is vital we protect their legal right to join a union and engage in the collective bargaining process. I’m calling on Ultium to fully recognize and abide by all applicable laws as the union certification process continues.”