Patrick Moran, President of AFSCME Maryland Council 3, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the impact federal budget cuts could have on Maryland's public services. Moran highlighted the ripple effects of federal job losses, the importance of union mobilization and the need for strategic pushback against anti-worker policies.
Federal budget cuts threaten to destabilize Maryland's economy and public services, Moran said. He explained that with over 300,000 federal employees and contractors living in Maryland, job losses would significantly reduce tax revenue, affecting state-funded programs like foster care, education and infrastructure. He emphasized that these cuts would harm not only government workers but also local businesses and communities that rely on their spending.
Moran stressed the importance of educating and engaging union members to take action through phone calls, emails and attending events. He cited the successful pushback against VA job cuts as an example of how collective action can influence policy decisions. AFSCME Maryland is working to prepare members for potential challenges by improving communication and building solidarity.
Finally, Moran discussed AFSCME's efforts to work with other unions, community organizations and sympathetic politicians to amplify their message. AFSCME needs to expose the real-world consequences of budget cuts and present alternative solutions that prioritize workers and public services, he said. By framing the issue as one of economic stability and community well-being, AFSCME can build broader public support for their cause.
Listen to the full episode to hear more insights from Moran on AFSCME's strategies to protect public services and workers' rights in Maryland.