Sen. Durbin and Rivian CEO discuss electric vehicle infrastructure

Posted on September 28, 2023
Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe and Sen. Dick Durbin. (Photo courtesy Sen. Durbin’s office)

By WJBC Staff

WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin (D-IL) met with Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe Wednesday to discuss fortifying electric vehicle infrastructure and maintaining the state’s position as a leader in electric vehicle production.

During their meeting, Durbin also urged Scaringe to support any unionization efforts taken up by Rivian employees as UAW members nationwide strike for better pay and benefits.

“Rivian took a chance on Normal, Illinois, and it has paid off,” said Durbin in a statement. “Illinois is a leader in electric vehicle production, but only because of the unrelenting efforts of Rivian and its employees. In meeting with Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe today, I reiterated my support for the company’s mission while reminding Mr. Scaringe that Rivian employees deserve the benefits and security offered by a union if they so choose.”

In 2016, Rivian bought the shuttered Mitsubishi plant in Normal, Illinois.  The plant underwent a $1.2 billion renovation and now employs more than 7,800 workers.

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