Rove speaks at Hotel Pere Marquette while union members rally outside

http://www.pjstar.com/homepage/x2133280384/Rove-speaks-at-Hotel-Pere-Marquette-while-union-members-rally-outside

By KAREN McDONALD
of the Journal Star
Posted May 11, 2009 @ 03:28 PM
Last update May 11, 2009 @ 04:18 PM
PEORIA —

About 200 union members rallied outside the Hotel Pere Marquette on Monday in support of the Employee Free Choice Act that they say will make it easier for employees to join labor organizations.


DAVID ZALAZNIK/JOURNAL STAR
West Central Labor Council president Mike Everett speaks to around 200 labor supporters gathered Monday on the sidewalk outside of the Hotel Pere Marquette.

Meanwhile, about 40 people met inside with Karl Rove, former President Bush’s key adviser, who was speaking against the legislation. All union members and state Rep. Jehan Gordon, D-Peoria, and state Sen. Dave Koehler, D-Peoria, were among those denied access to the event, along with the media.

The Peoria Chamber of Commerce initially was partnering with another group to host the event, but backpedaled after experiencing outrage from union leaders and Democratic County Board members, who now are reconsidering their annual contract with the organization.

The event was sponsored by the Economic Freedom Alliance, a seven-state coalition comprised of manufacturing associations and chambers of commerce to fight the act.

The Employee Free Choice Act would allow workers to form unions by simply signing a card or petition, impose stronger penalties on employers who violate labor laws, and allow for arbitration to settle first contract disputes.

FULL story and more photos at link.

Probably not. He probably doesn't tip anything and they'd likely throw him out.