Press Releases and Statements

WASHINGTON, DC – Transportation union leaders are urging action on key transportation legislation that, if delayed further, forestalls needed improvements to our nation’s aviation and surface transportation systems and eliminates a major source of job creation so badly needed across the country. In their annual fall meeting today, leaders of the 32 unions that comprise…

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WASHINGTON, DC – Edward Wytkind, President of the Transportation Trades Department, AFL-CIO, issued the following statement in anticipation of Labor Day: “As Americans observe Labor Day this year, some may have a lot more to celebrate than others.  In the midst of a recession where high unemployment and slow job growth persist, transportation workers are…

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WASHINGTON, DC – Edward Wytkind, president of the Transportation Trades Department, AFL-CIO (TTD), issued the following statement following Senator Edward M. Kennedy’s death: “We’ve lost a friend and a fighter for workers everywhere with the passing of Senator Kennedy.  He was at the center of so many legislative initiatives to make jobs safer and more…

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WASHINGTON, DC – Edward Wytkind, President of the Transportation Trades Department, AFL-CIO, issued the following statement today in reaction to David Matsuda’s appointment as Deputy/Acting Administrator of the Maritime Administration, U.S. Department of Transportation: “Transportation unions support David Matsuda’s appointment to become the Deputy/Acting Administrator for the Maritime Administration. In his previous experience as both…

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WASHINGTON, DC – Edward Wytkind, President of the Transportation Trades Department, AFL-CIO, issued the following statement in reaction to Senate confirmation of Deborah Hersman to be reappointed to and named Chair of the National Transportation Safety Board: “Transportation unions are pleased the Senate has confirmed Deborah Hersman to lead the National Transportation Safety Board.  Hersman…

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WASHINGTON, DC – Edward Wytkind, President of the Transportation Trades Department, AFL-CIO, issued the following statement in reaction to Senate confirmation of Richard Lidinsky as Federal Maritime Commissioner: “Richard Lidinsky’s background and past work experience make him well qualified to serve as a Federal Maritime Commissioner.  Having worked 35 years on maritime issues, Lidinsky will…

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WASHINGTON, DC – Edward Wytkind, President of the Transportation Trades Department, AFL-CIO, testifies today before the House Ways and Means Committee about the challenges of funding a new Surface Transportation Authorization bill and the Highway Trust Fund. Below are excerpts from his oral testimony: “We can’t wait another 18 months for a surface transportation authorization…

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WASHINGTON, DC – Edward Wytkind, president of the Transportation Trades Department, AFL-CIO (TTD), issued the following statement today in reaction to the Obama Administration’s intent to nominate Daniel Elliott as Chairman of the Surface Transportation Board: “Transportation unions strongly support the President’s decision to nominate Daniel Elliott to serve as the Chair of the Surface…

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WASHINGTON, DC – Edward Wytkind, President of the Transportation Trades Department, AFL-CIO, issued the following statement today upon House and Senate consideration of the FY 2009 Supplemental Appropriations Act: “Demand for mass transit service is increasing like never before. Yet the struggling economy has created huge shortfalls in state and local contributions to transit agencies.…

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WASHINGTON, DC – Edward Wytkind, President of the Transportation Trades Department, AFL-CIO, issued the following statement today in reaction to the Obama Administration’s intent to nominate Harry Hoglander as a Member of the National Mediation Board: “Transportation labor strongly supports the President’s decision to nominate Harry Hoglander to another term as a Member of the…

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