OCEA Government Affairs Update: December 2024

Dear OCEA member,

The 2024 election cycle has ended. OCEA members stood shoulder to shoulder and achieved incredible wins for our membership! Thanks to everyone who helped ensure every vote was counted, and that all eligible voters had a chance to be heard!

Some may wonder why their union is so politically active. The answer is simple: because we have to be. For generations, unions have been on the front line of political campaigns and debates, where working people have been leveraging their strength in numbers to ensure that politicians will support our causes. These fights established the eight-hour workday, eliminated child labor, addressed workplace safety and much more.

2024 Election Recap
In the November 2024 election, OCEA endorsed 49 candidates or measures. In the 49 races, OCEA was successful in 35, a 71%-win rate! Some of our big wins include a MAJORITY in the City of Garden Grove, and a diverse pro-worker majority in the City of Irvine. These wins will help support public servants all throughout Orange County!

2025 and Beyond
Many of us think that 2025 is an “off-year” politically. The fight for OCEA members NEVER has an “off-year.” This year we will be engaged in Sacramento fighting for legislation that will help OCEA members. We also know that there are potential financial uncertainties facing the federal and state budgets. OCEA members must be vigilant and make sure that any budget cuts are not made on the backs of OCEA members!

Click here to see a video about why OCEA is involved in politics and click here to learn more about OCEA Legislative Advocacy.

If you want to get more involved with the OCEA Legislative Committee, click here!

In Solidarity,

Tim Steed
OCEA Assistant General Manager

Publication Date: December 23, 2024