Machinists President Says ‘No More DeLay’
The following statement was issued today by R. Thomas Buffenbarger, President of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), in response to a fundraising letter signed by House Majority Leader Tom DeLay.

“Have you no shame, Congressman DeLay?

“Your fundraising letter for the National Right To Work Committee tarred thousands of patriotic Americans with the implicit charge of treason. Your libel cannot be allowed to stand.

“The International Association of Machinists is the largest union in the defense sector. Our members are working around the world today on the planes and helicopters that protect our troops. IAM members were laid to rest in Arlington Cemetery just this past summer as unsung heroes of the Afghanistan war.

“IAM members are working round the clock to produce the smart bombs needed should President Bush order the invasion of Iraq. They are preparing the nuclear submarines whose Tomahawk missiles will announce that start of that war. And they are training the helicopter pilots who will rescue downed air crews.

“Congressman DeLay, the Machinists are a red, white and blue collar union. We build and maintain the weapon systems this country relies on. And, yes, IAM members, and all U.S. union members, deserve the wages and benefits won through collective bargaining -- a right of assembly guaranteed by the First Amendment to the Unites States Constitution.

“If you equate the exercise of a First Amendment right with treason, then your judgment is too impaired to function as a representative of the American people. It is time, Congressman DeLay, for you to resign from the Congress.”