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DEERFIELD BEACH, FL – Early this morning, congressional candidate Oliver Larkin joined Starbucks Workers United baristas on the picket line outside the first unionized Starbucks store in Palm Beach County, standing in solidarity with workers participating in a nationwide labor action.

The strike, the first in Florida connected to the national mobilization, comes as Starbucks Corporation continues to refuse to negotiate a fair contract with unionized employees. Baristas at the Palm Springs store are calling for better hours, fair wages, adequate staffing, and more predictable scheduling, echoing concerns voiced by Starbucks workers across the country. 

“This fight is about dignity, stability, and the right to a fair workplace,” Larkin said. “When CEO Brian Niccol takes home nearly $100 million while baristas make $16 an hour and struggle to afford rent in South Florida, something is deeply wrong. Corporate greed has consequences, and working people feel them every day.”

Larkin’s support for unions is rooted in personal experience. Before running for office, he helped organize his workplace with the NewsGuild-Communication Workers of America, giving him first-hand insight into the challenges workers face when fighting for a union. 

“As a former union organizer, I know what it means to demand better when the deck is stacked against you,” Larkin said. “In Congress, I will fight to strengthen federal labor law, end barriers to unionization, and protect the right of every worker to organize for a better life.” 

Starbucks Workers United has launched coordinated strikes nationwide in response to the corporation’s refusal to bargain in good faith, even as Starbucks continues to report strong profits and expanding executive compensation.

Larkin will continue joining workers across Florida’s 23rd District as part of his commitment to an economy that prioritizes people over corporate profits.

For more information, visit oliverforcongress.com and follow the campaign on social media.

Media Contact:
Zack Bofshever
954-439-6267
press@oliverforcongress.com 

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