Annette Taddeo Endorsed, TSA Privatization Backlash
Dear {{ FirstName | default: 'Friend' }},
Here's what you need to know this week:
FL AFL-CIO Endorses Annette Taddeo for Chief Financial Officer
The Florida AFL-CIO is proud to announce its endorsement of Annette Taddeo for Florida's next Chief Financial Officer!
As a State Senator, Annette Taddeo has consistently stood with the working families and has never lost sight of what workers need from their government. That is why we believe that as our next CFO, she will bring the experience and leadership needed to ensure that Florida's financial decisions put working people first!
See a write-up of the endorsement announcement in Florida Politics: https://floridapolitics.com/archives/812596-she-has-consistently-stood-with-the-people-florida-afl-cio-backs-annette-taddeo-for-cfo/
If you haven't already, be sure to vote on or before Tuesday's primary. We recommend dropping off your vote-by-mail ballot at a secure location or early voting! View our full list of endorsements here: https://bit.ly/WCFLC26
Backlash to TSA Privatization Effort at Tampa Int'l Airport
Tampa International Airport and the Transportation Security Administration's announcement of its intent to privatize approximately 700 TSA officers has been met with substantial backlash from workers, the public and, elected officials.
First, the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), the union which represents TSA Officers, has vowed that it won't accept privatization without a fight. The first step has been a Freedom of Information Act lawsuit against TSA for information about the Gold+ program. TSA created the Gold+ program secretively without input from AFGE, the traveling public, or Congress. TSA describes the program as a "new public-private partnership aimed at modernizing aviation security at select airports across the country."
Since at least August 2025, TSA has been planning this effort, but AFGE was only informed in July. According to an AFGE statement, "Congress got the same treatment. Asked at an April 16 hearing before House appropriators what TSA could share about privatization, acting Administrator Ha Nguyen McNeill pointed to the president’s budget, said a legislative proposal was still being developed, and falsely told lawmakers it involved only the country’s smallest airports. TSA had been briefing much larger international airports about Gold+ for months."
Second, the traveling public have been critical of this announcement. The highly-acclaimed Tampa International Airport social media accounts dropped its typically humorous tone to "clarify" its intentions regarding the TSA Gold+ program. The post was met with critical comments from its typically devoted and complimentary followers.
Finally last Thursday, the Hillsborough County Aviation Authority met for the first time since this announcement. AFGE Local 556 leaders spoke in public comment as well as WCFLC Board member Tessa Barber (AFT 7463) and WCFLC President Stephanie Yocum calling on the HCAA to exercise its authority over the the airport to stop this privatization. HCAA Board members County Commissioner Harry Cohen and Tampa Mayor Jane Castor echoed labor's opposition to this privatization and we thank them for their support!
Additionally, Congresswoman Kathy Castor sent an open letter to TPA CEO and the HCAA Board Chair calling on the airport to drop their privatization scheme. From her office's press release, “Every day, TPA TSOs greet and protect 70,000 passengers—neighbors, friends, and visitors—ensuring that each journey begins and ends with security and care. Their professionalism is not just a job requirement; it is a commitment to the well-being of our community. To replace these federal officers with a private contractor is to risk public safety, place profit above people and jeopardize the livelihoods of those who have served us faithfully.”
The Tampa Bay Times picked up Rep. Castor's letter which mentions, "[t]he opt-in to Gold+ is not a final decision, according to the airport’s webpage. Leaders still are reviewing the draft work and are set to continue evaluating whether the program is the 'best fit.'" As our efforts to pressure the airport to opt out of this disastrous privatization effort, we will be sure to keep you informed of ways to support our AFGE brothers and sisters.
Here's What's Coming Up:
TONIGHT 8/13: AFGE Congressional Townhall
Please note that this event was originally scheduled for August 11, and it has been changed to August 13. Additionally, Senator Brian Nathan will be replacing Rep. Kathy Castor due to scheduling issues.
8/15: Tampa Palms "Bring it On" Canvass - Knock for Brian Nathan, Luis Viera, and Neil Manimala
Mark your calendar for Saturday, August 15! You can knock for three endorsed candidates at once. See the flyer below for information.
9/7: WCFLC Labor Day Picnics
Tampa
Union's may pre-purchase meal tickets for $15 members; contact Field Rep Alec Wilcosky by replying to this email for more info. Tickets will be available for purchase on site for $20 via credit, debit, or cash. We are also looking for volunteers for 90-minute shifts with set-up, parking, ticket table, ticket takers, and tear-down. Please reply to this email if you wish to sign up for a shift.
Lupton's will once again be catering the event: BBQ pork and chicken plus baked beans, coleslaw, mac 'n' cheese, and garlic bread. Drinks include lemonade, tea, and beer.
We will have face painting, inflatables, and a water slide for kids (bring towels!)
Finally, ahead of November's Midterm election, we will hear from our endorsed candidates for office. View a full endorsement list here.
If you wish to share full details about this event, feel free to share our Mobilize link: https://bit.ly/laborday26
Sarasota
WCFLC's Coalition of Manasota Unions is organizing a celebration at Fogartyville. Expect comradery with fellow union members, a performance from union musicians, lunch, and hear updates from union members on their unions' wins.
Save the Date 12/12: Miami Labor Notes Troublemaker School
Labor Notes is returning to Florida for one of its famous Troublemaker Schools. This one-day training is great for rank-and-file members and stewards. Popular trainings include "Secrets of a Successful Organizer," "Assertive Grievance Handling," and "Dealing with Difficult Supervisors."
The trainings will take place Saturday, December 12 at Beyond the Bars's office in Miami. We will share registration details when they become available, just save the date for now!
That's all for this week! Check out our website at wcflc.org or follow us on Facebook and Twitter for more updates. If you would like to receive text message alerts from the Florida AFL-CIO (Msg & data rates may apply), text FLUNION to 235246!
In Solidarity,
West Central Florida Labor Council
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