After a discussion Thursday, the AFL-CIO General Board today released the following statement:
The deadly storming of the U.S. Capitol by a mob looking to overturn the results of a free and fair election, encouraged and inspired by President Donald Trump, was one of the greatest attacks on our democracy in American history. And the fact that trespassers were allowed to roam the halls of Congress without consequence is one of the latest examples of why we must tear down the systems and abiders of white supremacy.
Trump is an affront to every union member, and a clear and present danger to our nation and our republic. He should resign or be removed from office at once, whether through impeachment or the 25th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.
This is not a statement America’s labor movement makes lightly. It is not driven by politics or ideology, but rather by the fundamental belief that the preservation of our democracy is essential—though never guaranteed. Hate and insurrection have no place in America.
Contact: Carolyn Bobb, 202-637-5018
The AFL-CIO General Board is made up of all members of the federation’s Executive Council and the principal officer of each affiliated national or international union; the principal officer of each trade and industrial department; a representative of each national constituency, allied retiree and young worker organizations recognized by the federation; a representative of each chartered national community affiliate; and regional representatives of the state, area and local central bodies selected by the Executive Council pursuant to a system promulgated by the council.