AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer, Fred Redmond joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast and discussed recent legislation and political changes in multiple states and what that means for the labor movement.
With the recent mayoral election win by Brandon Johnson in Chicago, Redmond believes voters are starting to take back their voting rights and power. Redmond believes Johnson, a member and organizer for the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), a partner of the AFL-CIO, has the passion and vision needed to be a successful mayor.
Redmond went into more detail about Michigan and Wisconsin’s recent wins in state government. Redmond commended the effort of Ron Bieber and the Michigan AFL-CIO’s ability to educate and engage the voters of Michigan. Like Michigan, Wisconsin’s win in the Supreme Court election can be summed up by education and organizing efforts, Redmond said. These two examples can be used as a blueprint for states working toward similar goals, according to Redmond.
Finally, Redmond discussed the actions taken in the Tennessee state legislature. Redmond believes Tennessee Republican’s viciousness in ousting representatives demonstrates a desire to shut down the voice of the people. He added that the expulsions are a travesty and they were a direct attack on Democracy. Redmond said the AFL-CIO would be releasing a statement in the coming days, and the labor movement will be working to rectify these events.
Listen to the entire episode to learn more.