STATEMENT BY AFL-CIO PRESIDENT RICHARD TRUMKA ON

CLOTURE VOTE FOR PATRICIA SMITH AS SOLICITOR OF LABOR

America’s workers congratulate Patricia Smith for receiving 60 votes to invoke cloture, clearing her way for confirmation as Solicitor of Labor.  At a time when working families are bearing the brunt of the economic recession and violations of workplace rights are rampant, Ms. Smith’s commitment to strong, fair and effective enforcement of our workplace laws is crucial.

Smith may well be the most qualified person ever to hold the position of Solicitor.  Her 20 years of accomplishments have won her the unanimous support of the state’s congressional delegation—both Democrats and Republicans—and glowing letters of endorsement from business groups in New York State.

Under the leadership of Secretary Solis, the Department of Labor is returning to its historical and proper role – protecting the health, safety and welfare of working families.  America’s workers are proud that Solicitor Smith will be joining this excellent team and continuing her years of public service on behalf of working men and women.