Pat Gallagher, President of the North Coast Area Labor Federation, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss Utah's recent collective bargaining battle, his meeting with U.S. Congressmen Ro Khanna, and the Ohio AFL-CIO’s upcoming legislative conference.
In Utah, a recent legislative move to strip public sector employees of collective bargaining rights has sparked a powerful response, Gallagher began. Despite Utah's low unionization rate, the attack galvanized workers, leading to a petition that gathered over 300,000 signatures, far surpassing the required 140,000. Gallgher said the overwhelming response highlights a strong resistance to losing labor rights, reflecting what he believes to be a broader sentiment against such legislative overreach.
Gallagher also touched on his recent meeting with California Congressman Khanna about the Democratic Party's need to reconnect with its foundational message of jobs and the economy. He noted that the party must reclaim its narrative, which has been co-opted by the opposing side. Gallagher emphasized the importance of a centrist approach, as exemplified by Congressman Khanna. Gallagher believes the next leader of the Democratic Party should be advocates for job creation and retention, particularly in manufacturing sectors.
Finally, Gallagher discussed the Ohio AFL-CIO’s upcoming legislative conference in May, which aims to engage with state legislators on critical labor issues. Gallagher discussed the importance of this event in countering potential So-Called “Right-To-Work” legislation and ensuring that Ohio remains a state that supports workers' rights. The conference will provide a platform for labor leaders to articulate their positions and attempt to influence policy decisions, he said.
Listen to the full episode above to hear more from Gallagher.