Political Contributions

Local, County, State, and Federal

Voter education is the cornerstone of a functioning democracy and a vital tool for protecting the interests of American citizens—especially working families and the economically disadvantaged.

For too long, many elected officials have turned a blind eye to the needs of their constituents, while reaping the rewards of political longevity, special interest money, and self-enrichment. These politicians have built personal wealth and influence on the backs of taxpayers, all while neglecting the very people they were elected to represent. Meanwhile, communities suffer from a lack of adequate healthcare, housing, job opportunities, and social services—services that are increasingly strained and underfunded.

One of the most pressing concerns facing local and state governments today is the overwhelming burden placed on public assistance programs by the unchecked influx of undocumented immigrants. While compassion and due process are cornerstones of American values, there must also be a firm and fair commitment to prioritizing the well-being of American citizens—particularly those who are struggling to make ends meet.

Programs such as subsidized housing, food assistance, Medicaid, and educational resources were created to support the most vulnerable members of our society: low-income families, the elderly, disabled individuals, and veterans. These citizens depend on these systems for survival. However, when public resources are stretched beyond their limits, it is often these Americans who are pushed to the margins, forced to compete for services that were intended to be a safety net in times of need.

The current situation is unsustainable. Overburdened schools, hospitals, housing programs, and social service agencies are not able to meet the growing demand, leading to long wait times, reduced quality of care, and, in some cases, the complete denial of services to U.S. citizens in desperate need. The problem is not one of compassion—it is one of prioritization, sustainability, and fairness.

Elected officials have a solemn duty to uphold the Constitution and serve the American people first and foremost. When they fail to do so—when they ignore the financial and social strain placed on their communities by policies that disregard lawful process—they must be held accountable at the ballot box.

That is why comprehensive voter education is more important than ever. Citizens must be informed, engaged, and empowered to reject candidates who have abandoned their duty to serve and protect the public interest. Only through informed participation can we elect leaders who will restore integrity to public service, protect the most vulnerable among us, and ensure that America remains a nation where the needs of its citizens are respected, prioritized, and met.

Ask your local union representative how you can support this effort!

Public Employees Organized to Promote Legislative Equality (PEOPLE)

Contributions or gifts to AFSCME PEOPLE are not deductible for federal income tax purposes. All contributions to AFSCME PEOPLE are voluntary and will be used to support pro-worker candidates in federal, state and local elections. Contributions are not a condition of membership or employment and refusal to contribute is free of reprisal. Any contribution guideline is only a suggestion, and you may contribute more or less than that amount or nothing at all, and you will not be favored or disadvantaged because of your contribution amount or decision not to contribute. In accordance with federal law, AFSCME PEOPLE accepts contributions only from AFSCME members, executive and administrative personnel, and their families. Contributions from other persons will be returned. Federal law requires us to use our best efforts to collect and report the name, mailing address, occupation and name of employer of individuals whose contributions exceed $200 in a calendar year.