Lee Saunders
Public service workers are teaching us a lesson
There is no sector of the workforce more resilient than those who work in public service.
From the Leadership
Press Releases
AFSCME's Saunders on Corrections Week: We stand with every correctional officer and employee who work tirelessly to protect their communities
WASHINGTON – AFSCME President Lee Saunders released the following statement in recognition of National Correctional Officers and Employees Week, May 3–9, 2026:
“Correctional officers and employees are some of the bravest, mos...
AFSCME’s Saunders: We will keep fighting to protect our democracy and ensure a better future for working families
WASHINGTON – AFSCME President Lee Saunders released the following statement in response to the Supreme Court’s ruling in Louisiana v. Callais:
“For decades, the Voting Rights Act has protected the freedom to vote and ensured ...
AFSCME’s Saunders: On Workers Memorial Day we honor those we lost by fighting for stronger workplace safety
WASHINGTON – AFSCME President Lee Saunders released the following statement in recognition of Workers Memorial Day, Tuesday, April 28:
“On Workers Memorial Day, we mourn the loss of all those who have died, been seriously injured ...
AFSCME’s Saunders: It’s time to sign this collective bargaining bill and give Virginia’s public service workers a voice on the job
WASHINGTON – AFSCME President Lee Saunders released the following statement in response to the Virginia General Assembly rejecting the substitute bill submitted by Gov. Abigail Spanberger gutting Senate Bill 378 and House Bill 1263:
“The...
AFSCME’s Saunders: Chavez-DeRemer resignation an opening to nominate a Labor Secretary who will stand up for workers’ rights
WASHINGTON – AFSCME President Lee Saunders released the following statement on the resignation of Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer:
“Secretary Chavez-DeRemer’s tenure was a failure for working people – from neglectin...
AFSCME’s Saunders: This week, we honor library workers for their service to our nation’s communities
On National Library Workers Day, observed April 21, we celebrate the critical role library workers play in enriching our communities and providing a safe space for anyone who walks through their doors.
AFSCME’s Saunders: AFSCME members urge Virginia General Assembly to reject proposed substitute bill to gut collective bargaining legislation
WASHINGTON – AFSCME President Lee Saunders released the following statement urging Virginia lawmakers to reject the substitute bill submitted by Gov. Abigail Spanberger gutting Senate Bill 378 and House Bill 1263, legislation which granted collective b...