Jeff's 2026 AFSCME Convention Report

As a delegate to AFSCME’s 47th International Convention (Chicago, Illinois – 4/17 to 4/21/23), I would like to share what I observed and experienced over these 5 incredible and exciting days.

Theme

This year’s theme was titled Built for this Moment.

Content

Much of the Convention time was used to present amendments to AFSCME’s Constitution and Resolutions for delegates to approve or deny thorough a quirky process of a predetermined status by the perspective committees that present them to delegate body.

The remaining time was used to present many of AFSCME’s accomplishments via [extremely loud] multimedia presentations, guest speakers like Liz Shulman (AFL-CIO President, Randi Weingarten (President, AFT) and Keith Ellison (Minnesota Attorney General) and musical performances.

Workshops

Various workshops were offered over a two-day period covering many interesting topic that were Union related. However, they were offered way too early in the morning before the Convention’s morning call to order. Based upon past experience the workshops should be moved to a more convenient time during the day.

Duration

While AFSCME’s International Convention takes place every two years at a clip of 5 days, it may not be necessary to have it last so long. It could probably be shortened down to 3 or four days maximum with proper planning and scheduling.

In addition, the Convention should be made available for AFSCME members to watch virtually either live or with a re-play option.

Election

This year’s convention was different than most since the titles of both President and Secretary-Treasurer were being vacated by Lee Saunders and Elissa McBride respectively. 

While this election seemed pre-determined to be won by Patrick Moran (former Maryland Council 3 President and International Vice President) and Nicole Pollard (CSEA NY) it was quite tame and less raucous as compared to when Lee Saunders was running and elected AFSCME’s President in 2012 at the 40th International Convention held in Los Angeles.

There were challengers nominated by the delegate body for both positions, but ultimately Patrick Moran won overwhelming against Louis Demella (President, Local 3999, San Antonio, Texas). The challenger against Nicole Pollard ultimately stepped down supposedly for not meeting AFSCME’s election qualifications/requirements.

For additional information regarding the convention, feel free to visit https://convention.afscme.org/