In this engaging discussion, Everett Kelley, the National President of the American Federation of Government Employees and champion for federal workers, dives into the ramifications of President Trump’s newly announced reciprocal tariffs. He explores the contradiction of Trump’s claims about boosting American jobs while simultaneously attacking union jobs. Kelley also shares insights on how unions are mobilizing to fight back against the challenges posed by these policies, emphasizing the importance of support for federal employees amid rising layoffs and weakened protections.
Trump's new tariffs, aimed at reclaiming American jobs, may lead to economic instability and international retaliation.
The layoffs of over 120,000 federal workers under Trump's administration highlight ongoing challenges for unionized labor and government services.
Deep dives
Trump's Tariff Announcement and Its Implications
Donald Trump recently announced a significant tariff scheme, instituting a blanket 10% tariff on all countries and imposing notably high tariffs on countries he perceives as unfairly treating the U.S. For example, China faces a total of 54% in tariffs, while seemingly nonsensical tariffs are also placed on places with no population, like McDonald Islands, raising questions about the selection criteria. The potential economic impact of these tariffs is considerable, with expectations of negative effects on the stock market and consumer prices, indicating an unstable economic environment. This move aligns with Trump's rhetoric about protecting American workers, yet it raises concerns about retaliation from affected countries and the repercussions for international relations.
The Impact of Federal Employee Layoffs
Since taking office, Trump's administration has reportedly laid off over 120,000 federal workers, creating chaos and uncertainty within numerous federal agencies. Many of these layoffs are occurring without clear explanations, leaving employees confused and fearful about their job security and future. The American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) expressed concern about these cuts, especially regarding essential services that depend on federal workers like those at the Veterans Affairs office and food inspection agencies. The layoffs underline an ongoing effort by the administration to reduce government workforce while undermining the rights of federal employees to unionize and collectively bargain.
Judicial Wins Indicate Shifts in Political Momentum
A recent victory for a liberal judge in Wisconsin's State Supreme Court race suggests a potential shift in political momentum against Trump's administration, as voters signaled their rejection of outside money influencing local elections. This victory was framed by critics as a victory for democracy in response to massive funding efforts from high-profile figures such as Elon Musk. While not all recent elections have resulted in wins for Democrats, the closely contested margins in previously secured Republican seats indicate a growing sentiment that may challenge prevailing political norms. The outcome showcases the increasing engagement of voters and could foreshadow larger trends leading into future elections.
Wednesday was ‘Liberation Day’ in Trump’s America. For everyone else, it was a day of sheer economic panic, as President Donald Trump unveiled heavy 'reciprocal' tariffs on dozens of countries, on top of a 10 percent blanket tariff on all imports. Trump billed it all as a fool-proof strategy to bring back American jobs that have moved overseas, and said specifically the levies would be a boon for unionized workers at domestic car companies. But Trump is no friend to unionized labor. He's spent the days since his inauguration slashing thousands of unionized government jobs. Everett Kelley, national president of the American Federation of Government Employees, talks about how unions are fighting back.
And in headlines: Wisconsinites gave Elon Musk the middle finger by sending a liberal judge to their state Supreme Court, a federal judge dismissed corruption charges against New York City Mayor Eric Adams, and Amazon makes an eleventh-hour bid to buy TikTok.
Show Notes:
Learn more about the American Federation of Government Employees – www.afge.org/
