Tester: McGarvey a ‘true leader’ who made Montana better

(BOZEMAN, Mont.) – Senator Jon Tester today released the following statement in response to the passing of longtime Montana labor leader Jim McGarvey:

“Montana has lost a true leader. Jim dedicated his life to strengthening Montana’s working families, our kids and their teachers, and our middle class. Our state is better because of Jim’s service, and his legacy will never be forgotten. Sharla and I join all Montanans in keeping Jim’s family – and the entire labor community – in our thoughts and prayers.”

McGarvey, who grew up in Butte, retired as Montana AFL-CIO executive secretary in 2011. He previously served as vice president of the MEA-MFT and worked for the Montana Federation of Teachers. He also served for 30 years on the executive council of the American Federation of Teachers.

During McGarvey’s tenure as executive secretary, the Montana AFL-CIO’s membership grew from 28,000 to 44,000.