AFGE General Counsel Fights Trump Administration’s Union Attacks

Rushab Sanghvi, American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) General Counsel, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the union's legal battles against the Trump administration's anti-union policies. 

AFGE's legal team anticipated the administration's attacks on federal workers and unions, filing their first lawsuit within an hour of President Donald Trump’s inauguration. Sanghvi explained that the union has challenged executive orders and agency actions that violate the separation of powers and existing regulations. He highlighted a case in the Northern District of California that temporarily halted reductions in workforce at 17 agencies, demonstrating the union's commitment to protecting federal employees and their ability to serve the American public.

Sanghvi noted that the Trump administration's efforts to curtail collective bargaining rights have been particularly aggressive. He described an executive order that attempted to remove collective bargaining for nearly a million federal employees under the guise of national security concerns. AFGE successfully obtained an injunction against this order, arguing that it was a clear case of First Amendment retaliation against unions exercising their right to challenge administration policies.

Sanghvi emphasized the dedication of AFGE members who, despite facing job losses and workplace indignities, remain focused on their mission to serve the public. He shared examples of VA nurses and doctors fighting to maintain their ability to care for veterans, underscoring the broader impact of these legal battles on the quality of government services. The union's efforts, Sanghvi argued, are not just about protecting jobs but about preserving the integrity of public service.

Listen to the full episode for more about AFGE's ongoing legal strategies to protect federal workers and union rights.