"Freedom Convoy" protests are hurting workers in the auto sector.
Why it matters: Demonstrations have blocked the flow of commerce on one of the most important corridors between the U.S. and Canada, leading factories to shut down due to supply shortages.
- One early estimate shows this week's disruptions alone could have led to more than $51 million in direct lost wages for Michigan autoworkers, a report from consulting firm Anderson Economic Group shows.
Details: The estimate takes into account full-time employees who are on site in factories that make cars and parts for Toyota, Honda, GM, Ford and Chrysler in Michigan.
- It also includes Michigan workers in Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers, and transit and logistics businesses connected with the automakers.
What to watch: Similar protests could begin on Super Bowl Sunday in the Los Angeles area and spill over next month into D.C.
