WHEREAS:
The 2000 elections will resolve - - perhaps far into the future - - control of the Oval Office, Congress, state legislatures and governors' mansions around the country; and
WHEREAS:
This year's elections will determine whether the next President of the United States is likely to propose dedicating projected budget surpluses to paying down the federal debt and to shoring up Social Security and Medicare, or spend projected surpluses on huge tax cuts for the rich; and
WHEREAS:
The elections will either continue Republican control of the U.S. House of Representatives, or result in a gain of at least six seats for the Democrats to give Democrats control of the House; and
WHEREAS:
Year 2000 results will dictate which parties control the processes by which congressional and state district lines will be drawn; and
WHEREAS:
In 2000, thirteen states will elect governors; and
WHEREAS:
The goal of AFSCME, the AFL-CIO, other unions and like-minded organizations is always to elect leaders at all levels who are sensitive to, and will strategically advance the interests of, America's working families.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:
That, in the year 2000, AFSCME's International Union, its councils, locals and members commit the maximum available human and financial resources to elect political leaders on all levels who are dedicated to advancing the interests of America's working families; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:
That, at a minimum, each local and council achieve the goal of having 80% of their respective memberships registered to vote in the November 2000 elections; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:
That the International Union, its councils and locals create opportunities and innovative vehicles through which to educate AFSCME's membership about issues of significance to working families and about the importance of each member's vote; and
BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED:
That, in 2000, the International and its affiliates redouble their historically compelling commitment to the political process, in order that AFSCME continue to be recognized as having the largest, most effective political field operation in the American labor movement-continuing, therefore, to derive the benefits of being recognized as the best.
SUBMITTED BY:
INTERNATIONAL EXECUTIVE BOARD