Union Allies Turn On ‘Pro-Labor’ Biden For Trying To Prevent Looming Rail Strike
The commander-in-chief said in a Monday evening statement that the possible work freeze, which could begin as soon as December 9, would “devastate” the economy ahead of the holiday season. “As a proud pro-labor President, I am reluctant to override the ratification procedures and the views of those who voted against the agreement,” he remarked. “But in this case — where the economic impact of a shutdown would hurt millions of other working people and families — I believe Congress must use its powers to adopt this deal.”
The Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Division responded in a harsh statement noting that the organization “is deeply disappointed by and disagrees with” the sentiment expressed by Biden. “It is not enough to ‘share workers’ concerns.’ A call to Congress to act immediately to pass legislation that adopts tentative agreements that exclude paid sick leave ignores the Railroad Workers’ concerns,” the group said. “It both denies Railroad Workers their right to strike while also denying them of the benefit they would likely otherwise obtain if they were not denied their right to strike.”
Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen President Michael Baldwin likewise affirmed in an interview with CNN Business that intervention from Congress “prevents us from reaching the end of our process” and “takes away the strength and ability that we have to force bargaining.” The Railway Labor Act, passed in 1926 as the nation became increasingly reliant upon railways, allows Congress to exercise its authority over interstate commerce by preventing rail strikes.
When the truckers were having issues with hauling freight Biden wanted to send in the NG to help drive the trucks. Would he send them in the run the trains .?