Elected officials should support unions

As a retired union member I know first hand how unions protect workers rights.

For too long, the power and wealth have resided with corporations and CEOs. Companies produce record profits, buy back stocks and pad executive pay while workers are left putting in long hours with no additional compensation. Ask any working Iowan and he or she will tell you that workers rights have been under attack across the U.S. for years. Right here in Iowa, we've seen the gutting of collective bargaining rights, loss of compensation for on-the-job injuries, and corporate immunity for companies that fail to keep their workers safe.

Thankfully, the rise of popularity in unions is near the highest its ever been and legislation like the PRO Act, Protecting the Right to Organize, has passed the House. This labor reform law will give working men and women a seat at the table and protect their rights to unionize without fear of termination. Right here in Iowa, we've seen successful union negotiations to get higher wages for hardworking folks.

It's unbelievable to see Rep. Ashley Hinson try to create conflict with working Iowans over student loan debt when she has failed machinists, welders, pipe fitters, electricians, steel and iron workers and the rest when she voted against the PRO Act and the National Apprenticeship Act. We need our elected officials to support union workers when they vote, not just to create partisan political conflict and try to score points with voters.

Margaret Stephen

Cedar Rapids