AFSCME's leader, Lee Saunders, declined an offer to remain as an at-large member of the DNC, citing concerns over the party's direction and internal factionalism. This resignation follows broader disputes within the DNC and signals a commitment to accountability and progressive values.

A profile on OpenSecrets reveals that 1 out of 8 lobbyists affiliated with AFSCME in 2023 had previously held government positions. This detail is part of broader lobbying and campaign finance data that underscores the union's active involvement in political advocacy on behalf of public service workers.

The U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia granted a preliminary injunction in the case of Widakuswara v. Lake, effectively blocking the Trump administration's attempt to shut down the U.S. Agency for Global Media. This decision, celebrated by union leaders and media advocates, safeguards both press freedom and the rights of federal workers.

AFSCME, along with union partners and supportive congressional members, has reintroduced the bipartisan Public Service Freedom to Negotiate Act aimed at expanding collective bargaining rights for public service workers. The move comes amid heightened attacks on labor rights and is positioned as a direct challenge to authoritarian measures undermining workers’ freedoms.

AFSCME President Lee Saunders issued a statement in response to a federal judge's temporary restraining order that halted efforts to shut down the U.S. Agency for Global Media and Voice of America. In the statement, AFSCME criticized the administration's plans, including proposed layoffs affecting AFSCME-represented workers, and warned that the influence of wealthy elites was undermining free and fair reporting.

AFSCME's profile data reveals that during the 2024 cycle, the union contributed approximately $17.7 million and spent about $2.76 million on lobbying efforts, as detailed in recent campaign finance disclosures and lobbying records.

The Nevada Independent reported that AFSCME, a major union representing government workers, donated maximum contributions of $10,000 to 12 different Democratic candidates during the 2022 legislative cycle. This action reflects the union's commitment to progressive political engagement and strengthens opposition to authoritarian influences.