U.S. Representative Ro Khanna of the 17th District in California, joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to talk about distractions on Capitol Hill. He also spoke about his concerns for union jobs if the US Steel sale is finalized and why it’s important for auto plants in the South to remain neutral during organizing campaigns.
There’s a disconnect between the politicians on Capitol Hill and the needs of the public. Khanna talked about some of the distractions politicians choose to spend their time on, which prevents them from focusing on real issues for their constituents. Khanna discussed his desire to talk about bringing industry back to American soil, creating good jobs and providing easier access to union jobs.
Khanna talked about the sale of US Steel to Nippon Steel and what that means for the future of their union jobs. After the sale is finalized, Nippon Steel plans to shut down the factories in Pennsylvania and move the plants down south, where the workforce is cheaper, Khanna said. After moving the plants, they will only produce lighter steel, with the heavier steel products imported from Japan. Along with the moving the plants, union workers would be eliminated, creating further damage to an industry already decimated by offshoring, Khanna said.
Finally, Khanna talked about the letter sent from multiple members of Congress to automakers in the South asking that they remain neutral during the announced organizing efforts from the UAW. The workers deserve the same opportunities for protection as union workers in auto plants in the rest of the United States. Khanna said there should be no problem for employers to agree to be neutral, especially if they utilize Federal funds for subsidies and tax breaks.
Hear more from Khanna’s interview by listening to the show above.