Idaho Democratic Party first in nation to unionize staff

Idaho Democratic Party staff unanimously voted to authorize the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers 291 (IBEW) as their collective bargaining representative.

This makes the IDP the first state democratic party in the nation to unionize its staff.

“This is a huge milestone for the IBEW and the IDP,” said IBEW 291 Business Manager Mark Zaleski.

Although it creates some challenges, Idaho Democratic Party Chairman Bert Marley is pleased with the decision.

“We believe that every Idahoan deserves a real chance to achieve the American Dream and this means allowing workers to organize, to bargain collectively, and to earn livable wages,” said Marley. “Our staff is setting an example of what it means to ‘walk the talk’ for other state parties and progressive organizations around the country.”