Social Security debate lauded (by Teamsters Union President) [View All]

[Freddie Stubbs]

By Brian Tumulty / Gannett News Service

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WASHINGTON -- In a break with other union leaders who have opposed Social Security reform, Teamsters President James P. Hoffa commended President Bush on Tuesday for starting a national conversation on the issue.

"Social Security is a major problem in this country," Hoffa said during an interview in his office two blocks from the U.S. Capitol. "We have to make sure that it's preserved for those that come after us. I think President Bush should be given credit for the fact that he has initiated a debate regarding what we should do."

Hoffa, who described his union's relationship with the Bush administration as "not close" but also "not far away," campaigned for Bush's defeat last year. But he also has sided with the administration on issues such as drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge and renewing terrorism insurance to help the commercial real estate industry.

The Teamsters leader is hoping the administration and congressional Republicans will shepherd into legislation a proposal that would help the long-term financial viability of multi-employer pension plans to which many of his members belong.

more: http://www.nytimes.com/2005/05/25/education/25diversity.html?