March 02, 2006 10:37 AM CST

Make a Difference in 2006!

By Jessica Johnson Bennett

This labor unions announced that they will fund their largest midterm election program ever, by spending $40 million on a 2006 campaign to educate and turn out pro-labor voters in November; likewise Corporate America and small businesses will surpass or match these funds to elect Members of Congress who support issues important to them. Not only will voters go to the polls to re-elect or elect 435 members of the U.S. House of Representatives and one third of the Senate, but many states have Governors races as well. These are perfect examples of just how important the upcoming midterm elections are and how much they mean to both workers and employers.

The stakes have never been higher and now is the time to roll up our sleeves and get to work. It is imperative that the Masonry and Construction Industry as a whole come together during this time and leverage our power to support current Members of Congress and those candidates who will work on behalf of our interests and support issues of critical importance; such as, eliminating the death tax, controlling the spiking cost of health care for small businesses and implementing Occupational Safety and Health Administration reforms that will help make workplaces safer while treating small businesses more fairly.

Through vehicles such as MCAA's Political Action Committee (MAC PAC) we can make our voices heard and contribute to candidates who have the industries best interests at heart. MAC PAC does more than help elect pro-masonry candidates. It earns MCAA respect in Washington. An association with a strong PAC demonstrates that it has a strong grassroots network, effective leadership, and a committed membership - in short, people who can positively influence public policy.

It is important that all of MCAA's members vote and become politically active. Contributing to MACPAC, while extremely important, is but one of the many ways you can achieve this goal. You can start by talking to your Members of Congress or the candidate you support and help spread their pro-masonry message through volunteering or simply by word of mouth to friends and family. Constituents are the most powerful people in America, without you, no one in Congress would be there. Remember they depend on your vote to put them there.

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About the Author

Jessica Johnson Bennett was the Director of Government Affairs for MCAA. She has an extensive background in public affairs and government relations. Her expertise in strategic planning, PAC management and operations help on key policy issues.