On June 25, a federal judge granted a preliminary injunction, blocking the Trump administration’s attempt to strip union rights from nearly one million federal employees. This decision comes after six unions, including our own AFGE, challenged the March 27 executive order in court. The judge found it likely that the administration violated the law by retaliating against federal employees for exercising their constitutional rights.
“This ruling is a resounding victory for labor unions and federal workers who keep our government running every day,” said NVAC President Alma L. Lee. “The court rightly recognized that retaliating against workers for exercising their rights is not only illegal—it’s un-American.”
The executive order in question attempted to revoke collective bargaining rights from over 950,000 federal employees, including many at the VA, EPA, and other civilian agencies—none of which have a primary function related to national security. The administration claimed “national security” as justification, but the court saw through this argument and recognized it as unlawful retaliation.
AFGE National President Everett Kelley summed it up perfectly:
“Federal employees have had the right to join a union and bargain collectively for decades… Revoking these rights was clearly a retaliatory attempt to bust federal unions and wreak havoc on our nation’s workforce and the services they provide to the American people.”
This decision is a powerful affirmation of the First and Fifth Amendments, our collective bargaining agreements, and the rule of law. Most importantly, it’s a testament to what we can achieve when we stand together.
Help Us Stay Strong: Make the Switch to EDues
In light of these attacks on our rights, it’s more important than ever to protect your union membership. The best way to do that is by switching to EDues—AFGE’s secure, electronic dues system. EDues ensures your membership is not dependent on management-controlled payroll systems and protects your ability to stay in the fight.
It’s quick and easy. Visit https://join.afge.org/L1061 and make the switch today.
By switching to EDues, you’re helping build a union that’s independent, resilient, and ready to defend your rights—no matter who’s in office.
This court ruling is a powerful reminder that we are stronger together. Let’s keep that momentum going by staying informed, organized, and committed to each other.