Democratic activist wants GOP lawmakers picketed while they're on recess

By BERRY CRAIG

AFT Local 1360

A veteran western Kentucky Democratic activist suggests that while the legislature is in recess, fellow Democrats and party allies should picket firms owned by Republicans who voted for the controversial pension, tax and budget bills.

"Recently in Henderson and Madisonville, Democrats, teachers, and Laborers have picketed the dry cleaning businesses of Republican Rep. Robby Mills," said Herb Pritchett, a member of the state party executive committee from Henderson.

Mills is also from Henderson. He and other lawmakers will be back in Frankfort on April 13 and 14 to deal with any vetoes from GOP Gov. Matt Bevin.

Most Republicans supported the legislation while most Democrats voted against the bills, which organized labor also opposed.

Pickets, according to Pritchett, highlight the differences between the two parties and show voters--notably teachers and public employees, current and retired -- "that the Democratic party stands with them."

Tri-County Council of Labor President John Coomes, also from Henderson, came up with the idea of picketing GOP-owned enterprises, according to Pritchett, who also chairs the Henderson County Democratic party. He thinks picketing, too, could be used to strengthen local parties across Kentucky.