The resignation of two major union leaders from the Democratic National Committee has revealed deep tensions within the party over its approach to working-class voters. Randi Weingarten (AFT) and Lee Saunders (AFSCME) criticized the DNC for failing to urgently oppose Trump-era policies and for sidelining labor voices in decision-making. Their departure follows Ken Martin’s rise to DNC chair and the exclusion of Weingarten from a key committee. While Martin and allies insist the party is prioritizing labor, critics argue it’s not doing enough to mobilize workers or counter harmful GOP legislation. The split underscores broader concerns about the party’s credibility with labor and working-class communities.
See "Union leaders’ exit from DNC exposes ‘mind-boggling’ tensions inside Democratic party", Steven Greenhouse, The Guardian, June 25, 2025