Why a re-run election and how to vote

There are always at least two sides to every story.

The Election Committee’s side: They gave a summary and reports about the election. But you should read both the preliminary report and the final report. The final report doesn’t tell the whole story. 

President Morrison’s side: She made false charges against me to try to remove me as Treasurer. She also asked to revoke my membership. 

My Side: I'm telling you my side because the future of your union depends on your choice in September. It’s important to think carefully before choosing a candidate. 

In my opinion, two events led us here: 

1. When President Morrison and the former Executive Director lied to the Board about the loss of a valued employee. Lawyers were paid to bargain to buy out the employee but the Board was told that the employee retired. She was fired because of an illness.

2. When I created an Expense Policy to help manage the budget.

The Board is responsible for the money (like Congress), while the President handles day-to-day work. I created the expense policy to give the Board ongoing management over the budget. But President Morrison wants to “be able to do what she wants” (her words). 

That’s what this is really about! 

Why do we need a re-run election?

I asked the Election Committee to advertise the May 1 Candidate Forum. They didn’t do it.I put up flyers in the transportation depots, with the Local’s logo because it was a Local-sponsored event. Using the logo and bulletin board was acceptable past practice.  But the Election Committee said those flyers hurt my opponent’s chances. 

The same lawyer was paid from your dues to advise:

• The Election Committee

• President Morrison on her charges against me

• The Trial Body who judged my case (selected by your President and Executive Vice President) – this violates YOUR Local Constitution.

• President Morrison and the Board on their charges against me and my False/frivolous counter charges against them.

Even though I was treated unfairly, the final decision was that I am NOT GUILTY of the worst charges.  They found me guilty of the charges that involved not signing a check, even though the evidence showed I signed it, using work email, and election issues already handled by the Election Committee.  Most of the charges, themselves, violated our Constitution. The guilty verdicts have been appealed to the International Union.

This election is about holding leadership accountable. Vote for me because I will stand up for you and watch how your dues money is spent. 

Your union is in trouble.

We are told our membership is 20,000–23,000 people, but it’s actually only about 10,500. How can we improve member engagement and services?The current leadership suggests raising dues, but will that really save us? 

Wouldn’t you prefer a Treasurer with real experience in managing budgets and overseeing the union? 

Vote for Oriole Saah—someone who will stand up for you! 

HOW TO VOTE

1. Remove and keep ballot, double window envelope, solid secret ballot envelope

2. Mark your ballot – fill in box completely but no marks anywhere else

3. Separate ballot from instructions.

4. Place the marked ballot inside the envelope marked “SECRET BALLOT ENVELOPE” and seal.

5. Place the sealed ballot envelope and stub into the window envelope so the Local’s mailing address shows in the window – just like paying a bill.

6. MUST arrive at the post office by 9:00 AM on September 30.  VOTE EARLY!!!

7. If you don’t get a ballot, contact the Local IMMEDIATELY through the website or by calling 301-740-7100.