Members of New York’s largest healthcare workers’ union have opted to remove their long-standing president amid allegations of mismanagement and extravagant spending.
Yvonne Armstrong, a senior executive at Service Employees International Union 1199 East, won decisively against George Gresham, reflecting significant discontent with his leadership. The vote tallied 26,623 in favor of Armstrong versus 11,722 for Gresham.
The election results were shared by the Union on Sunday, following an official count the night before.
Gresham, who began his career as a housekeeper at Elders Hospital, has led the union since 2007. Recently, he faced claims of misusing his Union Fund account, described as a personal “piggy bank,” allegations which he denied. His health has also reportedly declined.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Gresham expressed his disappointment in the election’s outcome. “This election wasn’t conducted as I had hoped, but I want to congratulate the candidates on their victory,” he said. He emphasized the shared commitment among union members to their labor cause.
Gresham reflected on his years as president, stating it was an honor to serve and noting his journey began 50 years ago as a member in housekeeping.
Gresham has been recognized for his efforts in raising the minimum wage in New York and for expanding home care services and Medicaid funding.
SEIU 1199 East is part of the largest healthcare workers union in the country, representing 450,000 members across several states, including New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Maryland, Florida, and Washington, D.C.
He has actively opposed proposed federal cuts to Medicaid and encouraged union officials to secure more favorable labor contracts.
“When my term ends in June, I look forward to taking on a new role in our great union as one of the active retirees,” Gresham noted.
This shift comes as Michael Mulgleu, president of the New York City Integrated Federation, who has been in power since 2009, faces a competitive reelection battle against former Queens Borough Representative Amy Arundel, who has gained a significant foothold within the union. Mulgleu successfully pushed for the Class Size Reduction Act in New York City classrooms.
Despite this achievement, dissatisfaction is brewing within his united caucus, with last year’s elections resulting in a victory for a slate challenger among retirees, particularly over proposed changes to Medicare coverage, which have angered many.
