From POLITICO’s Arena:
Question:
Ohio voters Tuesday struck down a law that restricted public workers’ rights to bargain collectively, a centerpiece of GOP Gov. John Kasich’s agenda.
Are Ohio voters in denial about the severity of the state’s fiscal problems? Will the vote slow efforts in other states to limit union power? And what does SB5’s reversal say about President Obama’s chances in Ohio in 2012?
Rodell Mollineau, President, American Bridge 21st Century:
Tuesday’s vote in Ohio to strike down a law restricting collective bargaining for public workers is a clear repudiation of the Republicans’ economic message. Voters know that police officers, firefighters, and teachers aren’t responsible for our nation’s economic struggles. Each monthly jobs report shows that continued Republican attacks on public workers are negating the employment gains made in the private sector and holding back our recovery. Voting to treat the individuals who protect our communities and educate our children with respect is not a matter of being in denial about the fiscal situation, but an expression of priorities.
The vote also shows that voters disagree with Republicans about the true meaning of shared sacrifice. Republicans want to punish teachers and first responders, or put the burden on the 99%, asking more from families already struggling just to make ends meet. Voters would rather see millionaires and billionaires pay a little bit more to give back to the communities that helped make their success possible. If Republicans continue to spout their extreme rhetoric, the message sent by Ohio voters on SB5 will be repeated loud and clear across the country in 2012.
Published: Nov 9, 2011