Labor groups pressure NY lawmaker on healthcare

New York labor leaders have ramped up the pressure on Rep. Michael Arcuri (D-N.Y.) before the Sunday vote on the healthcare reform bill.

In a letter sent to the congressman Friday, state AFL-CIO leaders tell Arcuri voting against the bill would be a “betrayal” to union members who helped him win in the 2006 mid-term elections.

“To do so would be a betrayal to our members who worked hard to help you win your office, and it would do an enormous disservice to the residents of New York’s 24th Congressional District who stand to benefit enormously from this legislation,” the letter states.

Arcuri voted for the bill in November last year but the two-term Democrat has since began to move to vote against the final bill. If he does so, the labor leaders say they could not support Arcuri.

“Congressman, we will not be able to explain to the members of our union why you voted against this bill. … Our members look for elected officials who have the courage to stand up to lies, distortions and political scare tactics. Your vote this Sunday will tell them what kind of elected official you are. Do not disappoint them or us,” the letter states.

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