In a recent encounter with FOX Business correspondent Hillary Vaughn, Senator Bernie Sanders, a self-described democratic socialist and chairman of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP), lashed out when questioned about his proposed 32-hour workweek. Vaughn asked the senator how businesses would survive the Democrats’ desire for increased taxes, higher wages, lower prices, and paying workers not to work. However, Sanders quickly interrupted her, questioning which network she worked for and dismissing her concerns.
Sanders, who led a hearing titled “Workers Should Benefit from New Technology and Increased Productivity: The Need for a 32-Hour Work Week with No Loss in Pay,” argued that reducing the standard 40-hour workweek is not a radical idea. He pointed to countries such as France, Norway, Denmark, and Belgium, which have shorter workweeks. Sanders introduced the Thirty-Two Hour Workweek Act, which aims to lower the threshold for overtime pay for non-exempt employees.
Despite Vaughn’s attempts to continue her question, Sanders repeatedly interrupted her, preventing her from fully expressing her concerns. He justified his push for a shortened workweek by citing the increasing wealth inequality in the United States, highlighting how the top 1% have benefitted while many Americans struggle to make ends meet. Sanders argued that it is time for billionaires, including figures like Jeff Bezos, to pay their fair share of taxes.
While Sanders displayed frustration during the interview, it is important to note that his proposed 32-hour workweek is not without its critics. Critics argue that such a policy could place a burden on businesses, leading to reduced productivity and potential layoffs. The impact on small businesses, in particular, remains a concern.
As the debate surrounding the 32-hour workweek continues, it is essential to consider the potential consequences and feasibility of such a policy. Balancing the needs of workers and businesses is crucial for any proposed legislation to achieve its intended goals without unintended negative consequences.
