AFL-CIO leader calls on Minnesota workers to prepare for 2004

ST. PAUL (AP) -- A top AFL-CIO leader is calling on Minnesota workers to mobilize before the 2004 election to oust the Bush administration.

Richard Trumka, AFL-CIO secretary-treasurer, said the White House is "the most anti-union administration in the history of this country" in a Labor Day speech on Harriet Island.

"We need a change in the White House!" Trumka shouted to the crowd Monday attending the annual Labor Day Picnic of the St. Paul Trades & Labor Assembly.

"The economy is in a ditch right now. We've had 3 million jobs lost in the last three years. We've had record trade and budget deficits, record job loss.

"Social Security, workplace health and safety, unions and society itself are under attack. We've got to mobilize for the most important national election in our history."

Trumka's speech drew about 500 people, part of an overall attendance of more than 3,000. U.S. Rep. Betty McCollum, D-Minn., was among the other speakers.