Otis Keys II, a 41-year-old UPS driver from Texas, has been grappling with smaller paychecks despite a new union contract. After hitting top-level pay in 2019, he expected to have more financial security, but cost reductions at UPS have led to job cuts and reduced hours for drivers. Keys’ take-home pay has decreased by about $3,000 per month on average, leading to financial struggles as he tries to support his four children.
Living in a Dallas suburb, Keys has seen his rent increase but is still paying below average rates. He hopes to buy a home in the future but is waiting for interest rates to drop. Grocery costs have become a major expense for Keys, as well as rising utility bills. He has had to adjust his spending habits and focus on saving money to cover unexpected expenses, like a knee surgery.
Keys plans to vote for Kamala Harris in the upcoming election, as he believes she will be more supportive of unions and working-class Americans. Despite his financial challenges, Keys remains hopeful and determined to improve his situation by getting back on a savings plan and starting an athletic-apparel business. He recognizes that others are in a more difficult situation and feels grateful for what he has.
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