Former union coal miner looks to become new AFL-CIO president

AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Richard Trumka is running to become president of the AFL-CIO when current president John Sweeney retires in September. Trumka worked his way through college as a coal miner and eventually became president of the United Mine Workers union. With 13 years of experience running the UWM and 14 years experience as the Secretary-Treasurer of the AFL-CIO, Trumka has developed an aggressive "old labor" organizing and fighting style. In the coming years, Trumka said he wants to build partnerships with organizations like the NAACP to help reach low-wage African-American workers. While Trumka's combative style may be a successful strategy for fighting corporate America, some labor leaders are concerned it may make recruiting white collar and young workers more difficult.

For the original article, click here. The site may require registration..