We would like to address some of the concerns that union members have raised following yesterday's elections.
First, it’s important to clarify the purpose and implications of an endorsement by the elected leadership of our state federation and national union. They are the result of a democratic process and reflect a majority, but by no means all, of our members' preferences.
Regardless of who you chose to support with your votes yesterday, as union members we share core principles that bind us together. These principles — a voice in the workplace and a voice for our students, our patients and our communities — require constant vigilance, no matter who wins at the polls.
Second, many have questions about the implications for the state legislature. Some are not resolved — re-counts are expected in at least three races — while others represent new territory — including a possible tie for control of the state Senate.
We do know that union members' volunteer efforts over the past six weeks held the line and prevented a complete take-over by candidates bankrolled by anti-worker special interests. Working together, we sent a clear message to incoming lawmakers that working people felt forgotten in the austerity budget passed earlier this year and opposed more austerity, unfairness or inequality.
Finally, the question that we've heard the most is, "what now?”
The answer is critical going forward, particularly as the state's business lobby is today already claiming a mandate for policies that will further degrade our state's quality of life. Their agenda is clear; more cuts to vital public services, more unfair taxation of the middle class and more weakening of collective bargaining rights.
Our members have already articulated what we think is both the right answer and the far better alternative for Connecticut; demanding an economy that works for working people.
Let's resolve to work together to achieve this shared vision and hold all elected officials accountable to protecting it.
In solidarity,
Jan Hochadel
President
John Brady, RN
Executive Vice President
Jean Morningstar
First Vice President
Ed Leavy
Secretary/Treasurer