In response to WGA's announcement that they are going to conduct a strike authorization vote, AMPTP President Nick Counter made the following statement:

“A strike authorization vote is a routine procedure that unions frequently take in the course of negotiations. The Writers Guild’s strike authorization is notable only because its negotiators seem intent on striking without seriously addressing the AMPTP’s proposals, and with no regard for the devastating impact on their members, fellow unions and this industry.

WGA’s leadership is pursuing this reckless strategy by misleading the membership about our proposals. We offered to jointly monitor, study and experiment with all forms of new media. The WGA rejected this sensible approach, forcing us to address the serious challenges facing our industry. We will do what must be done to keep our businesses sustainable, competitive and healthy.

We are committed and prepared to make a fair deal with the WGA, but at this point the WGA is not of the same mind.”