Teamsters Law Enforcement League Calls on S.C. Gov. Sanford to Protect and Serve Constituents

Sanford Playing Politics with Law Enforcement, Education

WASHINGTON, DC – April 10, 2009 –  The Teamsters Law Enforcement League today denounced a selfish political ploy by South Carolina Gov. Mark Sanford, who has refused more than $700 million in federal aid for education and law enforcement unless the federal government pays down the debt by an equal amount.

Sanford, a Republican, has decided that earning media attention to help his future political ambitions is more important than protecting the hardworking men and women that patrol our streets and educate our children.

In a state that has the second-highest unemployment in the nation, it is outrageous that Gov. Sanford is refusing federal aid that will help workers in some of our most critical public services – law enforcement and education, said Jim Hoffa, General President of the Teamsters Union, which represents more than 1.4 million workers in North America. In this economic climate. the governor should not be playing political games with people’s livelihoods.

As a result of Sanford’s political stunt, thousands of law enforcement officers and teachers could lose their jobs, and thousands of inmates could be released early from prisons. Sanford has been harshly criticized by both political parties in South Carolina.

On behalf of the members in law enforcement that the union represents, the Teamsters Law Enforcement League denounces Sanford’s actions and requests he immediately accept the funds so the residents of South Carolina do not suffer due to his arrogance.

Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents more than 1.4 million hardworking men and women in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico.

For more information go to: http://www.teamster.org/