The union representing members of the Democratic National Committee has initiated a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for staffers who were recently laid off. This move has sparked criticism from those still employed by the DNC, who view the layoffs as a betrayal of party values.
The GoFundMe campaign, set up by the DNC union, aims to raise $25,000 to support staff affected by the recent job cuts following the party's losses in the 2024 election. According to the union, two-thirds of DNC staffers were let go with minimal notice and without receiving any severance pay.
In a statement posted on the fundraising page, the union condemned the DNC leadership for what they described as callous and short-sighted layoffs. They expressed disappointment that employees who were previously assured job security post-election were also affected.
Organizer Jill Brownfield, representing the DNC staff union, expressed sadness over the departure of colleagues who had worked tirelessly to elect Democrats. The union criticized the lack of severance provided to those impacted by the layoffs.
The relief fund established by the union aims to directly assist affected staff members, including single parents and expectant workers. The funds will be distributed equally among laid-off members who choose to receive assistance, with the goal of alleviating the financial burden on those impacted.
Following the announcement of the layoffs by the DNC, current employees and union members voiced strong disapproval. They accused the DNC's senior leadership of leaving loyal staff in a precarious financial situation, struggling to meet basic needs such as rent, medical expenses, and childcare costs.
The union called on Democratic Party leadership to provide severance to all permanent employees who were laid off and to communicate transparently with remaining staff about the way forward.
As of the latest update, the GoFundMe campaign had raised $15,453 out of its $25,000 goal. The DNC has not yet responded to requests for comment regarding efforts to address the union's concerns or support affected employees during the transition period.
