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WASHINGTON D.C.- Last month, the Center for Union Facts (CUF) challenged the American Rights at Work (ARAW) to debate the Employee Free Choice Act (EFCA), which is a defining issue for labor this election year. EFCA has gained nationwide attention in the 2008 election as groups on both sides of the debate are spending tens of millions of dollars advertising on this issue alone.

But with legislation like EFCA, where the effects on working Americans are as complicated as they are far reaching, the public deserves a more thorough debate on the subject than has been offered to date.

With that in mind we asked that David Bonoir, chairman of ARAW, join us in debating the issue and its impact on the American workforce at the National Press Club between now and Election Day. The Center for Union Facts delivered this debate challenge in a letter (full text below) to Mr. Bonoir on August 22, 2008. He has not yet responded to our invitation:

“I hope Mr. Bonoir will give working Americans what they deserve, an open and honest debate on the effects of this important legislation,” said Center for Union Facts Executive Director Rick Berman.

Dear Chairman Bonior, The 2008 election season is set to be a defining moment in American labor history.

The Employee Free Choice Act —which the labor union movement has put at the forefront of its 2008 political agenda—has far-reaching implications for America’s workforce. The economic, social, and political ramifications will be felt for generations to come.

Our organization feels passionately about the negative impact that this legislation would have on the American economy and individual rights. And it is clear from your defense of card-check unionization that you feel equally passionate in your position. Thus, in the great history of American political discourse, I would like to challenge you to debate the Employee Free Choice Act and its impact on the American workforce at the National Press Club.

I believe that a debate would provide an ample opportunity for the public to better understand the issue, and would provide a forum for a respectful discussion. The discourse created by the debate could propel this issue to the forefront of the national consciousness and give “card-check” the attention and media focus it rightly deserves. I hope that you are willing to join me in further exploring this important legislation.

Sincerely,

Richard Berman

Center For Union Facts

The Center for Union Facts is a non-profit organization supported by foundations, businesses, union members, and the general public. We are dedicated to showing Americans the truth about today's union leadership. For further information or to arrange an interview please call Sarah Longwell at (202) 463-7106.