Appeal filed on behalf of our members

Earlier this week I outlined a number of problems with the recent NewsGuild-CWA election process. Today, I filed a challenge on behalf of our members.

Our union’s top officers failed to notify members of the nominating event, the process to become an eligible voter and the election itself. They sent at least 1,000 ballots and possibly many more to wrong addresses, denying those members the opportunity to vote. That is inexcusable.

I forced an election my opponent did not want and Guild leadership was ill-prepared to handle. The last competitive race was more than a decade ago.

But I ran my campaign on a promise of increased democracy and transparency, and I will continue to fight for it.

We cannot let this moment pass us by. We must ensure all of our members can exercise their right to vote and that our elections are conducted fairly and openly.

You can read the full challenge here. The accompanying exhibits are here.

What’s next?

The election committee should respond within about 10 days, but might take longer. If my challenge is denied, I will appeal to the Executive Council of The NewsGuild-CWA. If that appeal is denied, my next option is to take this to the U.S. Department of Labor.

By shining a light on the problems with this election, we can strengthen our union’s democracy together. I will keep you updated on the process.

Thank you for being a part of my campaign and this movement. I am committed to enfranchising every voter in our union.

In solidarity,

Jon Schleuss