Montana Workers Call for a New Voice in Washington
Many Montana families are struggling as everyday costs climb. Nurses on double shifts, firefighters waiting for the next call, builders working long summer days, and truckers driving across the state all face higher grocery bills, gas prices, housing costs, and other essentials that strain their budgets. The simple arithmetic of income versus expenses no longer balances for them.
AFL‑CIO – A Voice for Workers
The Montana AFL‑CIO, a coalition of 38 labor unions and over 500 local chapters, represents more than 50,000 workers and their families from every sector of the state’s economy. Their mission focuses on:
- Better pay
- Safer workplaces
- Reliable healthcare
- Secure retirement
Supporting an Independent Candidate
In line with its mission, the AFL‑CIO recently chose to support Seth Bodnar, an independent candidate for U.S. Senate. The board emphasized that party affiliation matters less than a candidate’s commitment to working people day in and day out. After evaluating all Senate hopefuls, Bodnar stood out by:
- Meeting directly with union members
- Listening to their concerns
- Demonstrating a firm commitment to worker rights and community strength
Bodnar’s Credentials
- Background: Raised by parents who were public school teachers
- Education: Degree from West Point
- Military Service: Green Beret and combat veteran in Iraq
- Campaign Achievements:
- Collected over 30,000 signatures across Montana
- Raised more money than his Republican rival and 88 times the amount of the Democratic candidate
- Remains tied in polls against his opponent
The Call for Choice
Montanans desire more options beyond the traditional two‑party system. They seek a candidate who prioritizes their needs over partisan politics and is ready to fight for them in Washington. The AFL‑CIO believes Seth Bodnar fits that role and urges all workers, families, and union members to back his Senate bid.