The MeidasTouch Podcast: AFL-CIO President Liz Schuller on Fighting Back Against Trump's Attacks On Workers

Release Date: April 5, 2025

Introduction

In this compelling episode of The MeidasTouch Podcast, hosts Ben, Brett, and Jordy Meiselas delve into the pressing issue of union rights undermined by the Trump administration. Their special guest, Liz Schuller, President of the AFL-CIO, provides an in-depth analysis of the challenges facing federal workers and the broader labor movement. Through heartfelt stories, strategic insights, and unwavering advocacy, this episode underscores the critical fight to preserve workers' rights and support democracy.

Personal Stories Highlighting the Crisis

The episode opens with a poignant story shared by a TSA baggage officer, Bobby, who has served at Dallas Fort Worth Airport for nearly 15 years. Bobby recounts the unpredictable and often distressing nature of his job, emphasizing the vital role he plays in national security.

Bobby (01:21): "I'm not going to lie, I like some of Trump's policies and that's the reason why I voted for him. But did I know it was going to threaten America, The America that I keep safe every day?"

Bobby's narrative serves as a microcosm of the larger issue: the erosion of union rights and the subsequent impact on workers' morale and efficacy.

AFL-CIO's Stand Against Policy Attacks

Liz Schuller provides a comprehensive overview of the AFL-CIO's response to the Trump administration's aggressive stance against unions. With 15 million members across 63 different unions, Schuller outlines the federation's multifaceted approach to combating these challenges.

Liz Schuller (03:17): "These people aren't just numbers on a spreadsheet. They're human beings. They're the ones who keep our food safe, our water clean and care for our veterans when they come home and keep our airplanes safe in the sky."

Schuller emphasizes the human cost of political decisions that devalue and dismantle collective bargaining agreements. She highlights the emotional and professional toll on workers who have dedicated their lives to public service.

Litigation as a Primary Strategy

One of the key strategies discussed is the AFL-CIO's aggressive litigation efforts to defend union members' rights. Schuller details several high-profile lawsuits initiated by the federation:

1. Probationary Workers' Firings: The AFL-CIO swiftly filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration's termination of probationary federal workers, asserting the illegality of these actions.

   Liz Schuller (06:35): "We filed that day, I think, or the next morning to say, this is an illegal action. We're not going to let you get away with it."

   The lawsuit successfully resulted in the reinstatement of these workers, showcasing the federation's commitment to legal avenues in protecting members.

2. Department of Government Efficiency Intervention: When the administration attempted to interfere with the Department of Labor by introducing a shadow department led by a controversial figure, the AFL-CIO responded with immediate legal action.

   Liz Schuller (06:35): "We filed a lawsuit there as well to put up some guardrails to say, we need transparency."

   This move was pivotal in safeguarding sensitive worker data and ensuring that whistleblowers remained protected.

3. National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) Chair Reinstatement: Following the illegal firing of the NLRB chair, the AFL-CIO took decisive action to seek her reinstatement, further illustrating their relentless pursuit of justice.

   Liz Schuller (08:35): "We filed a suit right away to get her reinstated."

These litigation efforts not only provide immediate relief to affected workers but also set precedents that protect the broader labor movement.

Mobilizing Public Support and Grassroots Activism

Beyond legal battles, the AFL-CIO is actively mobilizing public support through rallies, protests, and coalition-building. Schuller discusses the importance of collective action in creating tangible change.

Liz Schuller (12:10): "We're starting with ladders of engagement. We doubled every single month."

The federation has launched initiatives like the Department of People Who Work for a Living, aiming to engage everyday Americans in understanding and advocating for workers' rights.

Liz Schuller (12:10): "We're the ones on the front lines who know the insides of these agencies, the work that is being done... interpreting what's going on."

This platform seeks to decode complex policy impacts and provide a space for workers to share their experiences, thereby fostering a more informed and active supporter base.

Impact of Policy Changes on Federal Workers

The episode delves into the staggering 10,000 job cuts at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), many of which were reportedly made in error.

Liz Schuller (09:45): "These are the people we're relying on who are making sure that, you know, children are given the health care that they need. It is absolutely appalling."

Schuller highlights the reckless approach of eliminating jobs without proper cause, emphasizing the dire consequences for essential public services and the individuals who ensure their smooth operation.

Building Coalitions and Future Strategies

Looking ahead, the AFL-CIO is focused on building coalitions with other unions and allies to amplify their impact. Schuller underscores the necessity of unity in the labor movement to face increasing challenges.

Liz Schuller (12:10): "We know in unions that's what we do. You're not powerless if you come together."

By fostering strong alliances, the AFL-CIO aims to create a resilient front against any future attempts to undermine workers' rights, ensuring sustained progress for the labor movement.

Conclusion

This episode of The MeidasTouch Podcast offers a powerful exploration of the ongoing battle to protect union rights against political adversities. Through Liz Schuller's expert insights and heartfelt testimonies from affected workers, listeners gain a comprehensive understanding of the strategies employed by the AFL-CIO to defend and advance the interests of millions of American workers. The combination of legal action, public mobilization, and coalition-building exemplifies a robust and determined effort to uphold democracy and ensure that the dignity of work remains intact.

Notable Quotes

• Bobby (01:21): "I'm not going to lie, I like some of Trump's policies and that's the reason why I voted for him. But did I know it was going to threaten America, The America that I keep safe every day?"

  • Timestamp: 01:21

• Liz Schuller (03:17): "These people aren't just numbers on a spreadsheet. They're human beings. They're the ones who keep our food safe, our water clean and care for our veterans when they come home and keep our airplanes safe in the sky."

  • Timestamp: 03:17

• Liz Schuller (06:35): "We filed that day, I think, or the next morning to say, this is an illegal action. We're not going to let you get away with it."

  • Timestamp: 06:35

• Liz Schuller (09:45): "These are the people we're relying on who are making sure that, you know, children are given the health care that they need. It is absolutely appalling."

  • Timestamp: 09:45

• Liz Schuller (12:10): "We're the ones on the front lines who know the insides of these agencies, the work that is being done... interpreting what's going on."

  • Timestamp: 12:10

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