Overview

• The Service Employees International Union (SEIU) has rejoined the AFL-CIO after a 20-year separation, expanding the federation's membership to 15 million workers across 60 unions.
• Union leaders Liz Shuler of the AFL-CIO and April Verrett of SEIU stated the decision was not a direct response to Trump's election but acknowledged the importance of labor unity under a potentially challenging administration.
• The SEIU represents 2 million workers in sectors like healthcare, public services, and building maintenance, many of whom are low-wage earners and immigrants vulnerable to policy changes under the new administration.
• The AFL-CIO and SEIU endorsed Kamala Harris in the 2024 election, citing concerns over Trump's labor policies, while the Teamsters union notably withheld an endorsement for the first time in years.
• Labor experts highlight the move as a strategic effort to strengthen organizing capabilities and push for pro-worker policies, especially as union membership in the U.S. remains at historic lows.