Patricia Smith cloture vote/AFL-CIO Statement

[Omaha Steve]

For Immediate Release

STATEMENT BY AFL-CIO PRESIDENT RICHARD TRUMKA ON

CLOTURE VOTE FOR PATRICIA SMITH AS SOLICITOR OF LABOR

February 1, 2010



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.