Jun 17, 2025 | Politics & Legislative News
BOSTON, June 17, 2025 – U.S. Reps. Stephen F. Lynch (D-Mass.), Joe Courtney (D-Conn.) and Jared Golden (D-Maine) joined the IAM Union and Boston Ship Repair leadership to call for urgent investments to save the U.S. shipbuilding and repair industries.
Joined by IAM Union-represented workers at Boston Ship Repair, the coalition of elected officials, union leaders and shipyard management highlighted the national and economic security risk posed by a dwindling U.S. shipbuilding and repair industry. Currently, about 80 U.S.-flagged ships are engaged in international commerce compared to over 5,500 China-flagged vessels. China recently overtook the U.S. in Navy fleet size.
The group has backed U.S. Trade Representative penalties on Chinese ships and steps to incentivize the production and purchase of U.S.-built vessels. They are also championing the bipartisan SHIPS for America Act, which would rebuild the U.S. shipyard base and invest in recruitment and training of shipyard workers and mariners. The coalition is highlighting the need to efficiently utilize and grow domestic shipbuilding and repair capacity to increase the workforce at Boston Ship Repair and across the country.
“Our ship-building and ship-repair industries have a tremendous impact on our national security and our ability to maintain freedom of navigation for all nations,” said Rep. Lynch. “Today we are facing a critical shortage among our U.S. shipbuilding and repair capacity, and we are falling behind in production and upkeep of both our commercial and naval vessels. We must continue to make substantial federal investments in our shipyards and ship-repair facilities in order to maintain our position in the world. I am grateful to my congressional colleagues, U.S. Rep. Joe Courtney (D-CT) and Jared Golden (D-ME) for traveling to Boston Ship Repair in South Boston today to join me to show support for our shipbuilding and ship-repair industry. My thanks as well to International Machinists Union VP David Sullivan, BSR owner Jon Cronin, CEO Ed Snyder, and IAM Local President Andre Lavertue and all the union members of the IAM for their continued support of our regional ship-repair industry.”
“Revitalizing American shipbuilding is critical to our national and economic security. It’s a bipartisan goal in Washington, and we need to use all of our available shipyard capacity to get the job done if we’re going to deliver on it,” said Rep. Courtney. “We must provide American shipyards and shipbuilders, like Boston Ship Repair, with the demand they need to make investments in their future and the future of our domestic shipbuilding industry.”
“America needs strong shipyards. On the defense front, we are lagging in the production of American warships necessary to meet current and future force needs. We also lack the commercial vessels we need to compete in the global economy,” Rep. Golden said. “The reality is simple: If we aren’t giving work to the men and women who power America’s shipyards, they will find new jobs and we will fall further behind. Congress needs to keep up demand for warships to sustain the world’s greatest Navy and we need to pass the SHIPS Act to strengthen our shipyards, our commercial fleet and our supply chains. Our future demands it.”
“American national and economic security depends on urgent and long overdue investments in our shipbuilding and repair industry,” said IAM Union Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan. “That’s why the IAM Union has led the way toward tougher trade rules on China, much-needed investments in U.S. shipyard workers, and a strong call for the efficient use of our existing shipyards, like Boston Ship Repair. We’re incredibly grateful for our champions in this fight, including Congressmen Lynch, Courtney and Golden.”
“We’ve invested in Boston Ship Repair because we believe in its potential—not just as a business, but as a critical national asset,” said Boston Ship Repair Owner Jon Cronin. “With a highly skilled union workforce, proven infrastructure, and the experience to deliver, BSR stands ready to be part of the solution to America’s shipyard capacity crisis. But we can’t do it alone. Without consistent work and federal investment, this vital facility—and the hundreds of jobs it sustains—are at risk. We’re calling on Congress and the Navy to recognize BSR not just as a shipyard, but as a strategic pillar of the defense industrial base. With immediate support, we can expand our capacity, modernize our infrastructure, and begin reducing the Navy’s repair backlog today—while preserving American maritime strength for generations to come.”
“Our IAM Union members at Boston Ship Repair are skilled, dedicated workers who are proud to support our maritime missions,” said IAM Union Local S25 President Andre Lavertue, a 30-year IAM Union member and crane operator at Boston Ship Repair. “But over the years, we’ve seen these jobs become less reliable and too often result in layoffs when work goes away. American shipyard workers are ready to reinvigorate this industry and win the future of global shipbuilding and repair.”
The IAM Union, which represents workers at Boston Ship Repair and shipbuilding and repair workers across the country, is leading the charge to restore U.S. shipbuilding by investing in American workers, as well as taking on predatory Chinese trade practices through a U.S. Trade Representative’s Office investigation and supporting the bipartisan SHIPS for America Act.
Boston Ship Repair has provided personalized services for domestic, international and government customers since 1995. It is one of the largest docks on the Eastern and Gulf Coasts and can handle vessels up to 1,000 feet with a 105 foot beam. Boston Ship Repair is committed to provide vessel maintenance, repair, overhaul and conversion services that are unsurpassed in the industry.
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Jun 10, 2025 | Politics & Legislative News
IAM Union International President Brian Bryant recently expressed his appreciation to a coalition of House Freshmen for signing a letter supporting fair trade practices, including a renegotiation of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) and the reauthorization of the U.S. Department of Labor’s Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) program.
“On behalf of the 600,000 active and retired members of this very diverse union, I want to thank these House Freshmen who understand the importance of fair trade policy,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “U.S. trade policy has led many news headlines in recent months, and this letter underscores the importance of renegotiating the USMCA to protect domestic manufacturing in areas like aerospace, reauthorizing the U.S. Labor Department’s TAA program, and enacting strategic tariffs that punish bad actors and protect U.S. jobs.”
Rep. Josh Riley (NY-19) and Rep. Lateefah Simon (CA-12) led 18 of their colleagues in a letter to President Trump and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer calling for a trade policy that strengthens America’s middle class, rebuilds the U.S. industrial base, and safeguards family farms and small businesses.
“For too long, bad trade deals have been written in Wall Street boardrooms and rubber-stamped in political backrooms—while towns from Endicott to Ellenville got sold out,” said Rep. Josh Riley. “I came to Congress to give blue-collar towns a real voice in trade talks. I’ll work with anyone from any party who wants to rethink trade in a way that supports American farmers, builds American factories for American workers, and strengthens national security.”
“I’m proud to represent the Port of Oakland, the largest refrigerated cargo export port in the United States,” said Rep. Lateefah Simon. “Tariffs are not inherently bad, but President Trump’s chaotic, self-imposed tariff war has been a disaster for the U.S. economy. That’s why I am leading my freshman colleagues to call on the president to fix U.S. trade policy to support workers, small businesses, and the environment.”
The members outlined four key areas of proposed collaboration:
1. Improving the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA):
- Include stronger labor and environmental standards.
- Close China’s USMCA backdoor into U.S. markets.
- Fix digital trade provisions.
2. Investing in American Manufacturing:
3. Reauthorizing Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA):
- Support and improve TAA for communities impacted by past trade policies.
4. Pairing Strategic Tariffs with Pro-Worker Laws:
- Implement tariffs with anti-price gouging and pro-labor reforms.
Read the full text of the letter here.
The IAM continues advocating for trade agreements prioritizing U.S. labor standards, environmental protections, and domestic production.
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May 19, 2025 | Politics & Legislative News
WASHINGTON, May 19, 2025—The National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE-IAM) and the IAM Union (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers) will gather outside the Department of Commerce on Tuesday, May 20, at 8:30 a.m. to welcome back employees of the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA).
Approximately 35 employees, represented by NFFE-IAM, had been placed on administrative leave and faced a Reduction in Force (RIF) threat. Now returning to their jobs, they will be greeted with signs of support and solidarity.
Federal workers are the backbone of our nation, providing essential services that keep our country running.
Event Details:
What: IAM Union and NFFE-IAM to host a visibility event to welcome back MBDA workers
When: Tuesday, May 20, 2025, from 8:30 a.m. to 9:15 a.m.
Where: Department of Commerce, 1401 Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington, D.C. (supporters will gather at the 14th Street main entrance)
Who: IAM Union, NFFE-IAM, labor allies, and community supporters
RSVP: Interested reporters can RSVP by emailing Bethany Shelton (bshelton@iamaw.org).
Supporters will hold signs welcoming the MBDA workers back and thanking them for their work. Members of Congress, elected officials, and local community leaders are invited to attend this event.
The IAM Union and NFFE-IAM invite members of the media to attend and cover this event. Visuals and interview opportunities will be available.
The IAM Union (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers) is one of North America’s largest and most diverse industrial trade unions, representing approximately 600,000 active and retired members in the aerospace, defense, airlines, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries.
goIAM.org | @IAM_Union
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May 1, 2025 | Politics & Legislative News
More than 400 IAM members from across the country gathered in Washington, D.C., this week for the 2025 IAM Legislative Conference – marking one of the strongest turnouts in recent history.
Over three days, IAM delegates came together to strategize, share stories from their communities, and meet face-to-face with the elected officials who make decisions that impact IAM Union members, their families, and communities every day. Through a packed schedule of speakers, congressional meetings, and issue-focused discussions, the message was clear: IAM Union members are united and ready to take on the growing wave of attacks on workers’ rights.
Delegates heard directly from IAM International President Brian Bryant and members of the IAM Executive Council, who spoke about the IAM Union’s legislative priorities and the urgent need to hold elected officials accountable. Congressional allies and labor champions addressed the conference’s participants, offering their support and pledging to continue the fight for stronger labor protections, fair wages, and the right to organize.
WATCH: IAM International President Brian Bryant and First Day Remarks.
Throughout the week, IAM members met with dozens of Senators and Representatives, carrying with them the voices of their fellow union members. From opposing anti-worker legislation and safeguarding federal workers to pushing for strong Buy American policies, fair trade, and retirement security, IAM delegates made it clear that workers are watching.
As part of this year’s Legislative Conference, delegates rallied at Columbus Circle outside Union Station, Washington, D.C., to celebrate federal workers.
PHOTOS: Federal Workers Support Day
The event served as an opportunity to show solidarity with federal workers affected by the Trump Administration’s attacks. It included remarks by the IAM Executive Council, NFFE-IAM leaders, congressional allies, and members who have been impacted by these actions.
WATCH: Federal Workers Support Day
As the conference concluded, IAM delegates returned home with renewed energy and a clear message for their members: the fight continues – not just in Washington, but in every shop floor, every local, and every community where workers stand together.
WATCH: Legislative Conference is in Full Swing on Capitol Hill.
This year’s Legislative Conference included the following speakers:
- IAM International President Brian Bryant
- IAM Canadian Territory General Vice President David Chartrand
- U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders
- U.S. Rep. Jared Golden (D-Maine)
- U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-Ill.)
- U.S. Rep. Shomari Figues (D-Ala.)
- U.S. Rep. Chris DeLuzio (D-Pa.)
- U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens (D-Mich.)
- U.S. Rep. Nikki Budzinki (D-Ill.)
- U.S. Rep. Rob Menendez (D-N.J.)
- U.S. Rep. Val Hoyle (D-Ore.)
- U.S. Rep. Linda Sanchez (D-Cal.)
- U.S. Rep. Mark Pocan (D-Wis.)
- U.S. Rep. Parmila Jayapal (D-Was.)
- IAM National Political and Legislative Director Hasan Solomon
- IAM International Affairs Director Peter Greenberg
- IAM General Counsel Carla Siegel
- NFFE-IAM National President Randy Erwin
- TCU/IAM National Legislative Director David Arouca
- AFL-CIO Director of Advocacy Jody Calemine
WATCH: U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders Remarks
PHOTOS:
Legislative Conference Day 1
Legislative Conference Day 2
See X coverage below:
Embed tweet
https://x.com/IAM_Union/status/1917567445335785587
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May 1, 2025 | Politics & Legislative News
WASHINGTON, April 30, 2025 – Hundreds gathered outside Union Station on Tuesday, April 29, to honor and thank federal employees at an energizing celebration hosted by the IAM Union (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers) and the National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE-IAM).
FEDERAL RALLY PHOTOS
The event, held during the IAM Union Legislative Conference week, brought together union members, labor allies, and elected officials in a show of unity and appreciation for the vital work of federal employees.
Massive rally takes place in Washington DC for fired federal workers marking Trump’s 100th day MSNBC
U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) and U.S. Representatives Steny Hoyer (D-Md.), Jamie Raskin (D-Md.), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-CA), and Glenn Ivey (D-Md.) delivered powerful remarks, praising the commitment and service of federal workers across the country. Their attendance underscored the strong support in Congress for the civil servants who uphold essential government functions every day.
“Our federal workforce represents the very best of our nation,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “Our members keep our country safe, serve our veterans, protect our public lands, and so much more. I want to thank our elected officials who stand with us in this fight to protect our federal heroes.”
Throughout the event, IAM Union members and allies held signs to celebrate federal workers turning Union Station into a rallying place for hundreds of supporters.
“We must continue to stand up for our members rights and recognize their contributions,” said NFFE-IAM Union President Randy Erwin. “We are proud to host this event to celebrate the contributions of federal workers and to let them know that their union has their back. Events like these remind the nation who keeps our nation running and who’s ready to defend their rights.”
The event also highlighted the recently launched “Rise Up: Federal Workers Legal Defense Network,” a powerful legal initiative supporting current and former federal workers who have faced retaliation or unjust treatment. The program, created in partnership with AFL-CIO, We The Action, Democracy Forward, and others, continues to offer vital legal resources. More information is available at workerslegaldefense.org.
As federal workers continue to face challenges, the IAM, NFFE-IAM, and their allies remain committed to advocating for their rights and celebrating their vital role in our democracy.
Social Media Roundup from the event:
The IAM Union (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers) is one of North America’s largest and most diverse industrial trade unions, representing approximately 600,000 active and retired members in the aerospace, defense, airlines, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries.
goIAM.org | @IAM_Union
The post Federal Workers Celebrated at Huge IAM Union Rally Featuring Senator Chris Van Hollen and Representatives Hoyer, Raskin, Kamlager-Dove and Ivey appeared first on IAM Union.
Apr 29, 2025 | Politics & Legislative News
Approximately 400 IAM Union activists have converged on the nation’s capital for the 2025 IAM Legislative Conference, held April 29 through May 1. At a time of growing economic uncertainty, political upheaval, and ongoing attacks on working people, IAM members are making their voices heard in the halls of Congress.
Delegates from across the United States are using the three-day conference to engage directly with policymakers, pressing them to take action on a wide range of legislative priorities. From protecting collective bargaining rights for federal workers to strengthening retirement and healthcare security, from defending domestic manufacturing to passing the long-stalled Rail Safety Act, and other critical issues, IAM members are making clear demands for a pro-worker agenda.
The conference officially opened with powerful remarks from IAM International President Brian Bryant, IAM Canadian Territory General Vice President David Chartrand, and IAM National Political and Legislative Director Hasan Solomon. Each leader underscored the urgency of the moment and the stakes for working families across North America.
IAM International President Brian Bryant opened the conference by welcoming delegates and calling attention to the growing threats facing working people, many of which, he noted, are coming directly from the White House.
“What happens here in Washington, D.C. – and in every state across the country – affects all of us, every second of every day,” said Bryant. “Elected officials can strengthen – or weaken – our collective bargaining rights, our pay, our healthcare, our retirement, our democracy, and so much more. We’re not fighting for Republican or Democratic issues – we’re fighting for IAM Union issues.”
“This week is all about fighting for our union and our members, it’s about showing that the power of the people is always more powerful than the people in power, and it’s about taking this country back for working people instead of billionaires,” continued Bryant.
IAM members will hear from policymakers, union allies in Congress, and policy experts throughout the week. Scheduled speakers will address topics ranging from domestic policy to defending democracy and countering corporate influence in government.
In his remarks, IAM Canadian Territory General Vice President David Chartrand spoke to the shared economic challenges and responsibilities between the United States and Canada, especially amid increasing tensions with China, as the need for cooperation to preserve national security and economic stability.
“We need to work together to make sure there’s fairness in the workplace,” said Chartrand.
IAM National Political and Legislative Director Hasan Solomon also addressed delegates, highlighting the IAM’s growing influence on Capitol Hill and the need for grassroots activism to hold elected officials accountable.
“We are here to take care of business,” said Solomon. “This week, we are here to hold our elected officials accountable.”
The IAM Legislative Conference is a vital opportunity for members to engage in the political process, share their personal stories with lawmakers, and shape the future of the labor movement. As economic pressures continue to mount and corporate interests tighten their grip on the political system, IAM delegates are delivering a clear message: the needs of working people must come first.
As the week continues, IAM members will meet with dozens of House and Senate offices, ensuring that the voices of workers are heard loud and clear.
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