Manchin and Sinema Block Democratic NLRB Control, Paving Way for Trump's Influence

Dec 12, 2024, 02:03 PM

Senators Joe Manchin and Kyrsten Sinema, both independents who previously caucused with Democrats, have voted against the reappointment of Lauren McFerran to the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), effectively blocking Democratic control of the labor regulator. The vote, which was 49 in favor and 50 against, with all Republicans and Sinema opposing, occurred just before McFerran's term was set to expire. This decision paves the way for President-elect Donald Trump to establish a Republican majority on the board upon taking office, allowing him to appoint two new members. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer expressed disappointment, calling it a 'direct attack on working people.' The rejection of McFerran's nomination, who had supported the joint-employer rule, is seen as a significant setback for labor unions and Biden's pro-union agenda, as her leadership had expanded union rights.