Government workers back Grimes in Kentucky Senate race

WASHINGTON – The American Federation of Government Employees today formally endorsed Alison Lundergan Grimes for election to the U.S. Senate.

Grimes, who is currently Secretary of State for Kentucky, will face incumbent Sen. Mitch McConnell of Kentucky in the November election.

“Alison Grimes has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to public service, and federal employees will have a much-needed advocate in the Senate when she is elected,” said Arnold Scott, AFGE National Vice President for the Sixth District, which includes Kentucky.

Sen. McConnell, on the other hand, has a six percent lifetime voting record from AFGE. As majority leader in the Senate, McConnell has overwhelmingly voted against the interests of federal employees. He led the fight to pass the budget plan introduced by Rep. Paul Ryan, which would have frozen federal pay through 2015, reduced retirement benefits significantly while requiring federal employees to pay more for a smaller pension, and cut the federal workforce by ten percent across the board.

McConnell also has worked to block extended unemployment benefits while voting to increase tax breaks for the wealthiest Americans and corporations, undercut union contracts and workers’ rights, and dismantle protections against contracting out that AFGE fought years to establish.

“Mitch McConnell has helped to lead every attack against federal employees in the U.S. Senate. We have an opportunity to gain a powerful advocate for workers’ rights and Allison Grimes is that chance,” AFGE National President J. David Cox Sr. said.

Photo: Allison Grimes. AP