Last week, the voices of working families were heard loud and clear, and those voices said we are ready for change! Based on the election exit polls, union families provided at least two-thirds of the Democratic victory. AFSCME members did their part and likewise came out in full force to vote and help effect the change America so badly needed.

Both houses of Congress are now controlled by the Democrats, paving the way for pro-worker initiatives such as raising the minimum wage, strengthening Social Security and Medicare and making healthcare affordable and available for everyone. In addition, six governorships and seven state legislatures were gained by the Democrats — a huge win for public service workers. On November 7th, voters also raised the minimum wage in all six states where the initiative was on the ballot and rejected so-called Taxpayer Bill of Rights initiatives in three states.

The mid-term elections signified an unprecedented effort on the part of AFSCME, as members across the nation mounted an aggressive effort to get voters to the polls. AFSCME members across the country made over 8 million telephone calls and distributed 7 million worksite fliers and direct mail pieces in targeted districts. The union spent $35 million on member mobilization, candidate contributions and “Get Out The Vote” (GOTV) activities in support of pro-worker candidates and initiatives. You can see for yourself the power of the AFSCME green machine at www.afscme.org by checking out our Election 2006 photo gallery and listening to AFSCME president McEntee discuss the election results.