AFL-CIO Bus Tour Highlights Anti-Worker Votes in Des Moines

AFL-CIO's Tour Highlights Key Votes in Des Moines

In the heart of Des Moines, Iowa, the AFL-CIO's "It's Better in a Union" bus tour made a significant stop, drawing attention to recent legislative decisions impacting public services. AFSCME members took the opportunity to address the ramifications of the "Big Beautiful Bill," particularly focusing on the votes cast by certain members of Ohio's congressional delegation.

Senator Joni Ernst, along with Representatives Zach Nunn and Mariannette Miller-Meeks, faced criticism for their support of the bill, which proposes substantial cuts to Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). These reductions are believed to fund tax cuts for billionaires, a move that has been labeled as detrimental to public welfare by critics.

This event is part of a nationwide tour by the AFL-CIO aimed at uniting workers against policies seen as harmful to their rights and community resources. Lyle Crone, a school bus driver from Des Moines and member of AFSCME Local 2048 (Council 61), voiced concerns over the bill's impact on local students.

"The cuts to Medicaid and SNAP will take lifesaving access to health care and food away from those who need it most, like the students in my district who rely on school as the one place they’ll find a meal because they don’t have food at home," Crone stated, highlighting the potential loss of crucial support for vulnerable children.

Concerns extend beyond immediate welfare losses, with Crone warning that public service privatization could compromise safety and job security. "I fear the school district will privatize the transportation department," he said. "You know what we have, as public employees, that these private bus companies don’t? Safety and security regulations. Requirements for certified mechanics. And the power of a union."

The broader implications of the bill are profound, with more than 86,000 individuals in Iowa at risk of losing healthcare coverage, and 259,300 potentially losing food assistance. This has prompted hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics to reduce services and staffing in anticipation of funding cuts.

Todd Copley, President of AFSCME Council 61, criticized the economic impact of the bill, stating, "Families are now facing higher health care bills, higher grocery prices and higher energy costs. And at the same time, the ultra-wealthy walk away with more tax breaks than they ever needed in the first place. That is not responsible governing. That is betrayal. And we will hold the politicians who voted for this disaster accountable."

The conference also featured remarks from Iowa attorney general candidate Nate Willems and Iowa Federation of Labor President Charlie Wishman, further underscoring the collective call for accountability and action against policies perceived as anti-worker.