AFGE congratulates new Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano

[Omaha Steve]

http://www.examiner.com/x-2071-DC-Special-Interests-Examiner~y2009m1d24-AFGE-congratulates-new-Homeland-Security-Secretary-Janet-Napolitano?cid=exrss-DC-Special-Interests-Examiner

The American Federation of Government Employees congratulated former Arizona Governor Janet Napolitano yesterday on her Senate approval as Secretary of Homeland Security. AFGE, the nation’s largest federal employee union, said Napolitano is a champion of labor and looks forward to working closely with her to keep the nation secure.

“Napolitano was an ideal pick by the president. Her swift confirmation is a testament to her sterling reputation,” said AFGE National President John Gage. “We are confident she can balance the need to keep the nation safe while protecting the privacy of our citizens.”

Napolitano is a proven friend of working people who signed an executive order in December allowing the state to engage in informal talks with union officials about budgeting and other issues.

AFGE’s 600,000 members have supported Transportation Security Administration officers from day one. TSO’s have been prevented from collective bargaining and other federal workplace protections, resulting in low morale and workplace discrimination.

“AFGE is eager to work with Secretary Napolitano,” Gage added. “We believe she understands the important role labor plays in fighting terrorism, securing our borders and keeping Americans safe.”