For Immediate Release
Friday, July 01, 2005
Statement of Gerald W. McEntee on Resignation of Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor
Justice Sandra Day O'Connor deserves praise for the distinguished service she gave this country in her more than two decades on the Supreme Court. In addition to being the first woman on the Supreme Court, O'Connor is known for her protection of women's rights and workers' rights.
While it may be easy for President Bush to kowtow to the far right wing of his party and nominate an activist, ultra-conservative judge to fill O'Connor's spot, Bush needs to do what is right, not what is easy. Just as previous Presidents have done, Bush should work with both Democrats and Republicans to find a nominee who will unite the county — not cause a greater divide.
The Supreme Court rules on issues that profoundly affect the lives of working people, such as wage laws, worker safety, discrimination and harassment. Working families deserve a court that will look out for their safety and well-being, and it is President Bush's job to ensure that his nominee has their best interest sat heart.
The American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), AFL-CIO, is the nation's fastest growing public service employee union with 1.4 million members. AFSCME organizes for social and economic justice in the workplace and through political action and legislative advocacy. AFSCME represents a diverse group of service and health care workers in the public and private sectors including nurses, EMTs, bus drivers, child care workers, custodians and librarians.
