Saunders says Garland will be a voice for working people at the Justice Department

WASHINGTON — AFSCME President Lee Saunders released the following statement regarding the Senate’s vote to confirm Merrick Garland as U.S. Attorney General:

“Merrick Garland will lead the Department of Justice with integrity, compassion and adherence to the rule of law at a moment of unprecedented challenge for the nation and working families.

“In nearly a quarter century as a D.C. Circuit Court judge, Garland has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to upholding the federal government’s obligation to providing equal justice for all. For more than four decades, Garland has confronted issues critical to working people – including age discrimination, employment discrimination, wage discrimination, labor rights, and much more. On these issues and many others, he has been a voice for evenhandedness and respect for the constitutional rights of every single person.

“AFSCME is a leader in the ongoing struggle for racial, social and economic justice. We believe that Merrick Garland will be an attorney general who shares our commitment to these values. We welcome his confirmation and look forward to working with him.”