SALEM, Ore. (AP) — Hundreds of union members who rallied at noon at the state Capitol in Salem got a pledge from Gov. John Kitzhaber that he’s on their side.
The Oregonian reported the Democratic governor said the state will not solve its budget crisis or fix other problems by attacking the labor movement or making scapegoats out of public employees.
The event was organized as a statement to Oregon lawmakers drafting the two-year state budget and a show of solidarity with embattled public employees in Wisconsin, where a Republican governor is trying to eliminate collective bargaining rights.
Many participants waved red “Wisconsin” signs, and signs that said “Fight back.”
Oregon AFL-CIO President Tom Chamberlain estimated the crowd at 700. He said events in Wisconsin have only helped labor’s cause around the country.
