Federal Workers Union Calls On Democrats To Support GOP Bill And End Shutdown

A labor union representing U.S. government employees, the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), is urging Democrats in Congress to support a Republican-backed bill to end the government shutdown. AFGE President Everett Kelley called for an immediate reopening of the government through a clean continuing resolution. He stated that both parties have made their points and it's time to cease the shutdown. Kelley emphasized the need to reinstate all federal workers with full back pay. Previously, Democratic-aligned groups, including unions, largely supported Democratic leadership in opposing a clean continuing resolution. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has refused to support the bill in its current form. Schumer insists that any funding bill must include extensions of Affordable Care Act tax credits. The Affordable Care Act, or Obamacare, has been a significant political issue, with Democrats often defending it. The Republican National Committee highlighted AFGE's call as significant, noting the union's typical donations to Democrats. Schumer's office did not provide a comment.