Fred Redmond, Secretary-Treasurer of the AFL-CIO, discussed the ongoing government shutdown, its impact on federal workers and the looming healthcare crisis. He highlighted the Trump administration's attacks on federal employees, a potential spike in healthcare costs and the AFL-CIO's call for responsible governance.
Redmond discussed the government shutdown and emphasized the severe consequences for federal workers. He said about 750,000 employees were locked out of their jobs and forced to choose between paying rent and buying groceries. Redmond noted that this is part of a pattern of attacks on federal workers, including firings, rehirings and stripping collective bargaining rights. He stressed that the AFL-CIO is urging the administration to fund the government, fix the healthcare crisis and prioritize workers' needs.
A healthcare crisis, Redmond warned, is a central concern of the shutdown, as it could lead to significant premium increases for individuals who obtain their insurance through the Affordable Care Act. He cited research showing that 22 million people could see their health insurance premiums more than double, while 179 million with employer-based coverage might face annual increases of $485 per person. The AFL-CIO is pushing to resolve this crisis before budget negotiations can proceed, he added.
Redmond also addressed the political messaging surrounding the shutdown, particularly claims about undocumented workers receiving benefits. He clarified that current laws prohibit undocumented workers from accessing Medicaid, Social Security, Medicare or Affordable Care Act coverage. Redmond characterized these claims as a smokescreen and part of a strategy to repeat falsehoods until they're perceived as truth.
Listen to the full episode for more insights on the government shutdown's impact on workers and the AFL-CIO's response.