Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01), recently introduced the American Protein Processing Modernization Act, which would provide a permanent framework to increase poultry and pork line speeds, a clear danger to workers and America’s food supply. Stuart Appelbaum, President of the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union (RWDSU), which represents over 15,000 poultry workers at facilities across the southern United States, as well as meatpacking and processing workers in other parts of the country issued the following statement:

National Voter Registration Day 2025 is quickly approaching on September 16th! For union members, registering to vote is an essential step in ensuring our voices are heard, both in the workplace and beyond. We recognize that our collective power is not only in negotiating for improved wages, benefits, and working conditions but also in actively engaging in the political arena. Elections shape policies that influence labor laws, workers' rights, the economy, and more. By registering to vote, union members guarantee that they have a direct impact on these decisions, from local elections to national contests that can shape the future of the labor movement.

Lawmakers in Washington, D.C., have pushed through a sweeping bill that promises to “streamline the economy” and “cut red tape.” But behind the catchy slogans and grandstanding, the so-called “Big Beautiful Bill” poses serious threats to everyday working people. Across our industries RWDSU members, their families and communities will be impacted.

Today, the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union (RWDSU) announced the union’s endorsement of Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill in her campaign for Governor of New Jersey. RWDSU members across the Garden State working in grocery, retail, warehousing, healthcare, manufacturing and public service sectors and more will mobilize in support of Sherrill’s candidacy, sharing her strong record of leadership and commitment to working people and communities.