Tom Buffenbarger, former International President of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to share his insights on the evolving landscape of labor rights and the challenges posed by the new Trump administration.
As the former International President of the Machinists Union, Buffenbarger has navigated numerous political landscapes, working with various presidential administrations to advance the interests of organized labor. In his experience, a new president can create new challenges for labor to overcome.
Buffenbarger expressed concern about the potential rollback of labor protections under the new administration, drawing parallels to the early days of the previous Trump presidency. He highlighted the risk of diminished enforcement of safety and health regulations, which could lead to increased workplace injuries and fatalities. Buffenbarger warned that agencies like the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) will be crucial in safeguarding worker safety.
He also reflected on the historical context of labor relations and noted some of the bipartisan efforts of past administrations to support workers’ rights. Buffenbarger recalled the presidency of Richard Nixon, a Republican, who signed the law establishing OSHA. To address potential challenges, Buffenbarger advised labor leaders and workers to build alliances and engage with all policymakers. This will ensure the interests of organized labor are represented in legislative decisions.
To hear more on Buffenbarger’s perspective on the future of workers’ rights, listen to the full show above.