Richard Trumka, head of the AFL-CIO, dies at 72He was one of the most powerful labor leaders in the country and a key ally of Democrats in WashingtonBy Eli Rosenberg
Today at 3:36 p.m. EDTAFL-CIO president Richard Trumka, one of the country’s most powerful labor leaders and an influential voice in many Washington debates, died unexpectedly at 72, according to the federation.
Trumka died on a camping trip with his family after suffering a heart attack, President Biden told reporters, saying Trumka was a close friend of his.
A third-generation coal miner who rose to power through the United Mine Workers, Trumka had become one of the most powerful labor leaders in the country and a key ally of Democrats in Washington, having worked in some capacity with every Democratic White House the last 30 years.
His death comes during a critical moment for the economy and millions of workers.
Washington leaders and governors are locked in a fierce debate about the best way to reopen the economy amid risks posed by the new delta variant of the coronavirus. Many Democrats and White House officials had looked to Trumka for direction on how best to proceed.
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https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2021/08/05/richard-trumka-death/
