Protect American Democracy

Floor Speech

PROTECT AMERICAN DEMOCRACY -- (House of Representatives - March 31, 2009)

(Mr. FLEMING asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute.)

Mr. FLEMING. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak in opposition to the Employee Free Choice Act, the title of which betrays the true nature of this bill. It represents nothing resembling ``free choice.''

This ``card check'' legislation is un-American and would strip workers of their fundamental democratic right to a secret ballot. Without the protection of the secret ballot, workers are likely to be exposed to pressure and coercion from union bosses and organizers.

My question to those who support this bill is: Why are you afraid of a secret ballot? Can't we give workers credit for making the right decision for themselves?

In addition, a recent study has shown that increases in union workers under card check rules will likely lead to an increase in unemployment due to making their businesses less competitive.

At a time when we should be focusing on job creation, the majority is pushing through legislation that will put millions of American jobs at risk while simultaneously eliminating a cornerstone of American democracy--the secret ballot.

As a small business owner myself, I can tell you that this legislation is a poison pill for the economy. I urge my colleagues to vote against this leftist, socialist legislation.

Source