Las Vegas casino unions are gearing up for a battle with President Donald Trump once again, as they prepare to negotiate new contracts with several of the city’s largest resort operators. The Culinary Workers Union Local 226 and Bartenders Union Local 165, which represent over 60,000 workers in the Las Vegas hospitality industry, are set to begin negotiations with major casino companies such as MGM Resorts International, Caesars Entertainment, and Wynn Resorts in the coming months.
The unions are seeking to secure higher wages, improved benefits, and stronger job security for their members, many of whom have been on the front lines during the COVID-19 pandemic as essential workers in the hospitality industry. Trump’s administration has been criticized for its handling of the pandemic, and union leaders are expected to push for better protections for workers in any new contracts.
“We are prepared to take on President Trump and the casino companies to ensure that our members are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve,” said Geoconda Argüello-Kline, Secretary-Treasurer for the Culinary Workers Union Local 226. “Our members have sacrificed so much during this pandemic, and now is the time for them to receive fair compensation and safer working conditions.”
In the past, Trump has clashed with the Culinary Workers Union over labor disputes at his own properties in Las Vegas, including the Trump International Hotel. The unions have been critical of Trump’s anti-union stance and have fought to protect workers’ rights in the face of his administration’s efforts to weaken labor protections.
Despite the challenges ahead, union leaders remain optimistic about the upcoming negotiations. “We have a strong and united membership that is ready to stand up for their rights and fight for a better future,” said Argüello-Kline. “We will not back down in the face of opposition, and we will continue to push for a fair and just contract that benefits all workers in the Las Vegas hospitality industry.”
As the negotiations get underway, all eyes will be on Las Vegas as the unions and casino companies navigate the complex landscape of labor relations in the era of Trump. The outcome of these negotiations could have a significant impact on the future of the hospitality industry in Las Vegas and set a precedent for workers’ rights across the country.
