Boeing Machinists Reject Offer; Strike Looms

Blondin says the IAM feels that Boeing's strategy is to anticipate that the union will be unable to convince two thirds of the members to approve a strike, even if they reject the contract. Boeing has repeatedly denied the charge.

Boeing spokesman Jim Proulx says the company's offer "truly rewards our employees with excellent pay, world class health care and one of the best pensions in the industry."

He says the company is open to resuming talks, but will not change its offer. Rather, Boeing wants workers to have time "to examine the contract with their families over the weekend -- they will see it is truly in their best interest to support it."

Meanwhile, the union has filed an unfair labor practice complaint with the National Labor Relations Board, saying that Boeing violated labor law and sought to gain approval for its proposal in "direct dealing" with members, rather than through the negotiating process.

Proulx said Boeing has done nothing wrong.