The American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), the largest union representing federal workers, has called for an end to the government shutdown as it reaches Day 27. In a statement released on Monday, AFGE National President Everett Kelley urged Congress to take immediate action and pass a clean continuing resolution (CR) to reopen the government.
Kelley emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that “it’s time” for Congress to put an end to the shutdown and provide relief to the thousands of federal workers who have been affected by it. He also stressed that there should be no half measures or temporary solutions, but a permanent resolution to the ongoing crisis.
The government shutdown, which began on December 22, 2018, has left around 800,000 federal workers without pay. These workers, who are essential to the functioning of our government, have been forced to work without pay or have been furloughed, causing financial strain and uncertainty for themselves and their families.
Kelley expressed his concern for the well-being of these workers, stating that “the longer this shutdown continues, the more devastating its effects will be on our members and their families.” He also highlighted the impact of the shutdown on the services provided by federal agencies, such as air traffic control, food safety inspections, and national parks.
The AFGE has been actively advocating for an end to the shutdown since its inception. The union has filed a lawsuit against the government on behalf of its members, challenging the constitutionality of forcing employees to work without pay. They have also been working with lawmakers to find a solution and reopen the government.
However, despite their efforts, the shutdown continues with no end in sight. Kelley called on Congress to put aside their differences and prioritize the well-being of federal workers and the American people. He stated, “It’s time for our elected leaders to do their jobs and pass a clean CR to fund the government. Our members and the American people deserve nothing less.”
The AFGE’s call for a clean CR echoes the sentiments of many Americans who are tired of the political gridlock and the impact it is having on their lives. The union’s statement has received widespread support from other labor organizations and the public, who are also urging Congress to take immediate action.
The government shutdown has now become the longest in US history, surpassing the previous record of 21 days set in 1995-1996. As the days go by, the effects of the shutdown become more severe, with federal workers struggling to make ends meet and vital services being disrupted.
It is time for Congress to put an end to this unnecessary and damaging shutdown. The AFGE’s call for a clean CR is a reasonable and necessary step towards reopening the government and providing relief to those who have been affected by it.
In conclusion, the American Federation of Government Employees is standing up for its members and all federal workers who have been impacted by the government shutdown. Their call for a clean CR is a call for action and a plea for Congress to prioritize the well-being of its citizens. It’s time for our elected leaders to come together and end this shutdown for the sake of our country and its people.
