In a heartfelt address during a Labor Day celebration in Pittsburgh, President Joe Biden emphasized the critical role of unions in building the American middle class and the economy. Reflecting on his long-standing relationships with labor leaders, Biden expressed gratitude for their support throughout his political career, highlighting endorsements from prominent figures such as Liz Schuler of the AFL-CIO and Kenny of the IBEW.
Biden reminisced about his early days in politics, recalling how the steelworkers' union endorsed him when he was just 29 years old, underscoring the importance of union backing in his journey. He praised the current leadership in Pennsylvania, including Governor Josh Shapiro and Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis, for their commitment to the community and labor rights.
The President reiterated a core belief: \"Wall Street did not build America. The middle class built America, and unions built the middle class.\" He cited a Treasury Department study indicating that strong unions benefit all workers, reinforcing his administration's focus on labor rights as a cornerstone of economic strength.
Biden also shared personal anecdotes about his father, who instilled in him the values of dignity and community associated with work. He concluded by celebrating his administration's record job creation, positioning it as a testament to the power of unions and the working class in shaping a prosperous future for all Americans.