Jason Walsh, Executive Director of the BlueGreen Alliance, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss ongoing threats to the federal workforce, the future of the Inflation Reduction Act and the potential impact legislative decisions could have on the CHIPS and Science Act.
Walsh started by discussing President Donald Trump and Elon Musk's recent attacks on the federal workforce. According to Walsh, more than two million workers, including over a million union members, are at risk. He explained the historical significance of the federal civil service, which is designed to be apolitical and serve the American public. Walsh warned against the administration's attempts to eliminate protections that ensure government positions serve the public rather than personal gains.
The discussion then moved to the Inflation Reduction Act, which Walsh described as a landmark investment in clean energy and industrial policy. He expressed concern over the Trump administration's freezing of funds already under contract, which Walsh said was illegal. By freezing these funds, Walsh said the administration is jeopardizing construction and manufacturing projects nationwide. This move threatens to derail efforts to create jobs and reshape the energy sector, while potentially redirecting funds to benefit the wealthiest Americans and corporations.
Lastly, Walsh addressed the CHIPS and Science Act, noting that the bill received bipartisan support and has been crucial in beginning the reshoring of American manufacturing. While he remains hopeful the act will be untouched, he expressed concern that the Trump administration might not honor commitments to labor and community benefits. The potential rollback of the initiatives from the bill could undermine efforts to rebuild the U.S. manufacturing base and secure economic and national security.
Listen to the full episode above to hear more from Walsh.