BP Whiting Refinery Workers Authorize Strike Amid Contract Dispute

Potential work stoppage at Midwest's largest refinery raises concerns over regional fuel supply and pricing

Published on Feb. 5, 2026

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Workers represented by the United Steelworkers union at BP's Whiting refinery in Indiana have voted overwhelmingly to authorize a strike, as contract negotiations have stalled over issues including job reductions and changes to worker protections. The 440,000 barrel-per-day Whiting refinery is the largest in the Midwest, and any disruption to its operations could have significant regional implications for fuel supply and pricing.

Why it matters

The Whiting refinery is a critical piece of energy infrastructure for the Midwest, converting crude oil into the fuels that power daily life across the region. A work stoppage at this facility would reverberate throughout the regional fuel supply chain, potentially leading to gas shortages and price spikes. This dispute also highlights the evolving dynamics between oil companies and their unionized workforce, as the industry grapples with technological changes, margin pressures, and shifting control over operations.

The details

The United Steelworkers union, which represents workers at the Whiting refinery, says BP's contract proposals would strain staffing levels and safety margins through job reductions and changes to worker protections. BP says it remains engaged in talks and wants to avoid a work stoppage. Even the possibility of a strike or lockout draws attention because large refineries like Whiting are not easily replaceable - their unique output, logistics connections, and regional role make them critical pieces of energy infrastructure.

  • The United Steelworkers union voted to authorize a strike on February 1, 2026.
  • The current contract between BP and the union is set to expire on February 15, 2026.

The players

BP

A multinational oil and gas company that operates the Whiting refinery, one of the largest refineries in the Midwest.

United Steelworkers

A labor union that represents workers at the Whiting refinery, who have voted to authorize a strike amid contract negotiations with BP.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.