Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont, the Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP), recently delivered an opening statement at a hearing on the nomination of Lori Chavez-DeRemer as Secretary of Labor. In his remarks, Sanders emphasized the importance of the Department of Labor’s mission to improve the welfare of workers and retirees in the United States, especially given the current economic disparities in the country.
Sanders highlighted the growing income and wealth inequality, with the top 1% enjoying unprecedented wealth while 60% of Americans are living paycheck-to-paycheck. He stressed the need for a Labor Secretary who will advocate for working families by raising the minimum wage, protecting workers’ rights to unionize, and addressing issues such as paid family leave and pay equity for women.
While Sanders acknowledged some positive aspects of Chavez-DeRemer’s record, including her support for pro-worker legislation like the PRO Act, he expressed concerns about her potential alignment with anti-union interests. He urged her to prioritize the interests of working families over the demands of wealthy individuals like Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos.
In conclusion, Sanders emphasized the importance of choosing a Labor Secretary who will champion the rights of workers and confront the growing power and influence of the billionaire class in American society. He called on Chavez-DeRemer to demonstrate courage and independence in her role as the president’s chief labor advisor and stand up for the interests of working families across the country.
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