Dissociation of Union Leaders Randi Weingarten and Lee Saunders from their positions within the Democratic National Committee amidst the Democratic Party's ongoing conflict.
Union Bigwigs Bail Out from Dem Party Amid Internal Clash
It's a dramatic departure for the Democratic National Committee (DNC) as two union bigwigs, Randi Weingarten and Lee Saunders, step down from their positions. This Isn't just a casual move; it's the latest chapter in the ongoing power struggle during Ken Martin's tenure as chairman.
The American Federation of Teachers (AFT) honcho Weingarten and the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) President Saunders, both prominent Democrats, have thrown in the towel amid the party's efforts to counterbalance President Donald Trump's administration.
Ironically, these two union chiefs had endorsed Martin's primary rival for the DNC chairmanship, Ben Wikler, former Wisconsin Democratic Party chairman. Disappointed by Martin's reshuffle of top committee placements, they were overlooked for the powerful rules and bylaws committee. Offered at-large positions, they politely declined, justifying it as being "out of step" with the party's new direction and a desire to engage more communities.
Weingarten penned a heartfelt June 5 letter to CNN, explaining her decision, stating, "While I am proud to be a Democrat, I appear to be out of step with the leadership you are forging..."
Saunders followed suit, citing a need for change, stating, "We must evolve to meet the urgency of this moment…This is not a time to close ranks or turn inward."
Speaking in defense, DNC spokesperson pointed to Martin's plans to democratize appointments to the party's standing committes, including the rules and bylaws panel. Previously controlled by past chairs, nominations will now be shared with the DNC's caucuses and Youth Council. Martin insists, "Building these slates collaboratively will result in a stronger DNC."
The New York Times initially broke the news about their resignations. Late last week, another shift took place as outgoing DNC vice chair David Hogg stepped down after the committee re-voted his February election over a minor procedural error. Hogg's tempestuous tenure as DNC vice chair was marked by a contentious battle over his commitment to back primary challenges against incumbent Democrats viewed as sluggish.
[1] Source: CNBC
The resignations of union leaders, Randi Weingarten and Lee Saunders, from the Democratic National Committee (DNC) highlight a shift in policy-and-legislation and general news, as they step down amid the party's ongoing struggle with President Donald Trump's administration. In their letters, both Weingarten and Saunders express their desire to engage more communities and evolve, feeling out of step with the party's new direction under Ken Martin's leadership.
