Calls on GOP to stop "stiff-arming" millions of desperate,
out-of-work Americans

Media contact:  David Roscow, 202-537-1645 x254

WASHINGTON, DC: The Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) released the following statement in reaction to President Obama unveiling his deficit reduction plan.

 “The president’s deficit reduction plan is the first real proposal that will bring our deficit under control and provide any benefit for working Americans and their families. This plan sets America on the road to real economic recovery.”

Hanley praised the president for including the “Buffett rule,” in his plan that would require wealthy citizens to pay at least the same percentage of their income in taxes as middle class citizens do.

“The handouts we’ve been giving the rich and corporations are no longer sustainable. Workers have been shouldering the burden and now it’s time for shared sacrifice in this country.

“Republicans will pay a heavy price next year, if they continue to ‘stiff-arm’ millions of desperate, out-of-work Americans with old obstructionist tactics designed to exempt the wealthy and companies from their responsibility to pay their fair share.

“Republican deficit reduction schemes can only sink the economy deeper into recession. And the Tea Party-controlled GOP is hell-bent on pushing this battle into 2012 in hopes of getting rid of President Obama at any cost, even if it means blocking any legislation, which would benefit American workers before the next presidential election.

“Our members will hit the ground running to get the special deficit reduction committee, and Congress to adopt the president’s proposal, and put Americans back to work and our nation back on track.”

About the ATU

The Amalgamated Transit Union is the largest labor organization representing transit workers in the United States and Canada. Founded in 1892, the ATU today is comprised of over 190,000 members in 264 local unions spread across 44 states and nine provinces, including 3,000 workers at Greyhound Lines, Inc. Composed of bus drivers, light rail operators, maintenance and clerical personnel and other transit and municipal employees, the ATU works to promote transit issues and fights for the interests of itshard-working members.

David Roscow
Amalgamated Transit Union, AFL-CIO
W. 202-537-1645 x254
C. 202-487-4990
www.atu.org