The Culinary Union has publicly criticized Florida Governor Ron DeSantis for his recent remarks regarding the union’s activities. During a press conference, DeSantis accused the union of engaging in practices related to ballot harvesting, prompting a swift rebuttal from union officials who labeled his comments as unfounded and misleading.
DeSantis Questions Union Practices
At the press conference, DeSantis aligned himself with former President Donald Trump‘s stance against voting by mail. He specifically targeted the Culinary Union, which represents about 60,000 workers in Las Vegas and Reno, alleging that the union would attempt to monitor its members’ votes. “You know, if you’re in Las Vegas, everyone knows ballots get mailed out. Do you think the Culinary Union is just going to let you kind of vote your conscience without trying to… bring the votes in?” DeSantis stated.
His comments included accusations of violating the principle of a secret ballot, which the union quickly refuted. The Culinary Union emphasized that DeSantis’ claims did not reflect their operations or values.
Union Responds to Accusations
Ted Pappageorge, secretary-treasurer of the Culinary Union, responded directly to DeSantis’ statements. He characterized the governor as an adamant anti-union advocate, asserting that DeSantis routinely undermines the rights of workers, including cooks, housekeepers, and food servers. Pappageorge cited various anti-worker measures supported by DeSantis, such as efforts to dismantle public service unions and backing the Right to Work Act, which allows employees to opt-out of union membership while retaining their jobs.
Pappageorge further criticized DeSantis for opposing increases to the minimum wage, arguing that these positions reflect a broader pattern of neglect toward workers’ rights. “Maybe if DeSantis and his MAGA buddies focused on the out-of-control cost of eggs, beef, and rent in his own state, instead of running around locking up dishwashers and landscapers and attacking Culinary Union members, he might have some credibility,” Pappageorge stated.
He concluded by suggesting that DeSantis should prioritize resolving the challenges facing Florida before interfering in Nevada’s labor issues. “Unless DeSantis fixes the troubles in Florida, he should just shut his mouth,” he added.
The Culinary Workers Union Local 226 and the Bartenders Union Local 165 have been instrumental in representing workers in Nevada, particularly in the hospitality industry, which has seen significant challenges in recent years. The exchange between DeSantis and the Culinary Union highlights ongoing tensions between state leaders and labor organizations as they navigate the complexities of workers’ rights and electoral integrity.
