AFSCME Criticizes Trump's First 100 Days: Broken Promises and Attacks

Administration's Initial Days Marked by Controversy and Criticism

The initial 100 days of the current administration have sparked significant debate, with critics highlighting numerous challenges facing workers and unions. AFSCME President Lee Saunders stated, “The first 100 days of this billionaire-run administration have been fueled by lies, broken promises, and a relentless assault on working people and unions.” This statement underscores the growing concerns about the administration's impact on labor rights.

During his campaign, President Donald Trump assured voters that the interests of working people would be prioritized, with pledges to reduce grocery and gas prices while safeguarding essential benefits and healthcare. However, critics argue that these promises have not been fulfilled, and instead, policies appear to be adversely affecting workers. A report details how the administration's actions are counterproductive to worker welfare.

Among the administration's controversial actions is the appointment of what has been described as the wealthiest cabinet in American history. Additionally, the onset of a trade war has led to increased prices on everyday goods and has negatively impacted wages. The administration has also enacted over a third of Project 2025’s anti-worker agenda.

Lee Saunders expressed concern about the immediate repercussions, noting, “Retirees are left wondering how to navigate Social Security as staff are laid off, offices are closed, and services are cut. People are watching their retirement savings shrink. Lifesaving health and safety regulations have been put on hold. Students with disabilities are losing vital support from the Department of Education. The Department of Health and Human Services is clawing back funding from states, cities and towns to fight infectious diseases as measles is on the rise.”

The administration has been accused of refusing to alter its course of action, prioritizing large tax breaks for billionaires at the expense of public services. As Saunders articulated, "This administration refuses to reverse course because its No. 1 goal is to hand out massive tax breaks to billionaires by robbing our communities of public services and workers of our power. Make no mistake — this will devastate our economy.”

In response, workers nationwide are mobilizing through AFSCME to foster collective action. The union reports that tens of thousands of public service workers have joined its ranks since the year began. These workers are actively organizing, hosting town halls, and lobbying Congress with letters, calls, and petitions demanding a halt to these policies.

Furthermore, AFSCME is pursuing legal avenues to combat various administrative measures. They are challenging issues such as:

• Mass firings of federal employees
• Security of Social Security data
• Unlawful closure of federal agencies
• Reductions in federal grants for essential public services
• Elimination of collective bargaining rights

In closing, Saunders emphasized the resilience and importance of working people, stating, “No matter how this administration attempts to reframe and erase history, we will never forget: It is working people who are the backbone of this nation. We built the middle-class. We built this country, and we will fight to protect our freedom to thrive.”

To explore further details on the 100 ways the administration's policies have impacted workers, refer to the Economic Policy Institute’s comprehensive report.