AFSCME Members Attend Republican National Convention in San Diego

Although the union has tended to support Democratic candidates as more progressive and attentive to the needs of America's working families, AFSCME's ranks include a strong contingent of Republicans who are just as committed to their beliefs as their Democratic counterparts.

Six delegates to the Republican National Convention in San Diego were either members or retired members of AFSCME, including Bradley Goodrich of Illinois Local 2000.

CSEA/AFSCME Local 1000 member and 1996 delegate Joseph Papillo has been to the last four Republican Conventions. "Right now people are focusing on the presidential election," said Papillo, "but we need to be more concerned with local candidates; they can have the most bearing on us."

George Bucci, 72, who retired six years ago after holding several key jobs in Putnam County, N.Y., is now a CSEA retiree. He recalled an upbringing that didn't "depend on welfare."

"You could have less government with less welfare," said Bucci.

Steve Korff, 49, a member of Local 786 (Council 6) said he took a lot of ribbing from his union brothers and sisters about being a Republican.

"Smaller government means less taxes," Korff said. "We need to move more things over to local government."

Opassi White, 58, a member of HGEA/AFSCME Local 152, said: "The Republican philosophy is the same as mine. I work hard to get where I want to be. I never ask for help."

Ed Bertorelli, 47, a member of Massachusetts Local 1706 (Council 93), said, "I respect the principles the Republicans stand for."