The American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), the National Education Association (NEA), and the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) have announced a new campaign called “Put Families First.” This initiative is aimed at opposing federal budget cuts that could affect public services. These unions, representing over 8.3 million workers, including nurses, educators, and sanitation workers, are concerned about proposed budget plans they say would benefit billionaires at the expense of essential services.
The campaign will begin with a $2 million advertising effort targeting 17 key congressional districts across the country. The unions aim to highlight how these budget cuts could impact vital programs like Medicaid, which many states rely on for funding hospitals, schools, nursing homes, and community centers.
“Congress’ proposed budget plan will spell disaster for working families and hurt our economy,” said AFSCME President Lee Saunders. He warned that cuts to Medicaid and food assistance could lead to overcrowded hospitals and underfunded schools.
AFT President Randi Weingarten criticized what she described as reckless cuts by Elon Musk and the Trump administration. She argued that these actions threaten schools and hospitals while benefiting billionaires through tax cuts.
National Education Association President Becky Pringle expressed concern over potential reductions in programs like Head Start and increasing class sizes due to budget constraints. She emphasized the commitment of educators to oppose these changes.
April Verrett, President of SEIU, highlighted Medicaid’s importance as a lifeline for working people. She stated that cutting Medicaid would mean seniors losing home care and children missing necessary medical attention.
The unions plan to use various media platforms to share stories from front-line workers whose jobs may be affected by these federal funding reductions.
