Editor’s note: This is part of NBC News’ Checkbook Chronicles, a series of profiles looking at the financial realities of everyday Americans and the challenges they face.
Otis Keys II, 41, The Colony, Texas
- UPS driver grappling with smaller average paychecks despite a new union contract.
- Father of four frustrated with grocery costs.
- Bucking his union’s non-endorsement and voting for Kamala Harris.
Otis Keys II, a UPS driver from The Colony, Texas, expected a boost in his finances after hitting top-level pay in 2019. However, the new union contract did not result in the expected financial relief. Despite the contract, cost reductions at UPS led to job cuts and less work for drivers like Keys, resulting in significant pay decreases.
Keys, a father of four, is struggling to make ends meet with higher rent and grocery costs. His reduced income has made budgeting challenging, especially with rising expenses on utilities and groceries. To cope, Keys is adjusting his spending habits, focusing on meal prep and seeking deals on essentials.
Still, Keys remains optimistic and grateful for his current situation. He is considering launching a business and aims to get back on track with his savings plan. Keys also shares his political views, expressing support for Kamala Harris in the upcoming election based on his concerns about the current economic climate.