e-Team Report, Nov. 10, 2014

The 2014 Midterm Elections and Beyond

After months of electioneering, phone banks, door knocks, and billions of dollars spent in campaign ads, the book has closed on the 2014 midterm elections.  The APWU is truly appreciative of all active and retired members and our Auxiliary who took time out of their lives to engage in this year’s elections.  It’s not glamorous work, but educating union households about the key political issues and candidates who will best represent working families is important and praiseworthy.

Last Tuesday’s elections serves as an important reminder that APWU’s ongoing work of advocating for our members, retirees, and families does not inexorably bind us to one party.  The mail is not a partisan issue.   Regardless of party affiliation, we will continue to engage and work with any lawmakers who will work with us.  Likewise, we will stand resolute in opposing lawmakers or legislation which seeks to diminish our livelihood or destroy good working class jobs.

APWU’s ongoing effort to secure a moratorium on the looming mail slowdown and plant closures has been bolstered by support from elected officials on both sides of the aisle.  A bipartisan majority of senators endorse legislation to block USPS’s wrongheaded cuts.  In the House, 5 Republicans and 5 Democrats have led the charge, securing the bipartisan support of over 160 representatives.

While Congress considers action, members of the four postal unions and supporters are preparing for a National Day of Action on Nov. 14.  With over 125 events nationwide, we will send a powerful message to Postmaster General Patrick Donahoe and the USPS Board of Governor’s: Stop Delaying America’s Mail!  To read more and find an event near you, click here.

Much remains to be seen about the new 114th Congress which will begin in January 2015.  APWU heads into the new Congress with an unwavering commitment to defend our livelihoods and achieve long-term, commonsense postal reform.  Stay tuned.