Washington, D.C. – Today, Senate Democrats met with Labor Union Leaders for a discussion on the main issue areas for American workers. The discussion focused on the issues of job creation, unemployment extension, workers’ rights, and the Senate Democrat’s fight to raise the minimum wage.
“I was pleased to meet with the labor community today and discuss not only the challenges, but also the opportunities for working families in Alaska and across the country,” said Senator Mark Begich (D-AK), Chairman of the Democratic Steering and Outreach Committee. “Each day I am focused on creating jobs and growing the economy so that Alaska families have more opportunities available to them. While Alaska has a higher state minimum wage than the federal level, we also have a much higher cost of living and we must continue to do more to help families get by. With the upcoming ballot initiative in November, Alaskans will have a chance to weigh in directly on this issue, but I will continue to fight each and every day for more opportunities for all families.”
“Organized labor is the backbone of the middle class in this country and is of the few strong voices left in this country speaking up for everyday people and advocating for what is fair and what is right each and every day,” Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) said. “From our mission to raise the minimum wage to the ongoing fight to extend unemployment insurance for workers, a strong and revitalized labor movement plays an enormous role in protecting and restoring economic security for working families across the country.”
“The labor movement was central to building America’s middle class, but workers’ rights are being attacked across our country. We know that collective bargaining allows workers to not only take care of their families, but also ensures safer working conditions. While we’ve beat back some of these attacks, there is more work ahead. Together, we must raise the minimum wage, invest in 21st century infrastructure, and protect Social Security and Medicare,” said Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH).
Increasing economic opportunity for American working families is a fundament of the Democratic Party and a commitment the United States has made to its workforce.
Photos from the event can be found HERE
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