Now, however, he says that he has no right to intervene in the private sector. Bush cannot have it both ways. Since that historic meeting with the growers, moreover, Rodriguez has, without presenting any evidence, demonized the coalition as being a shill for the so-called Mexican lobby. He has, in effect, helped to destroy any goodwill that Bush had built with farm workers. Rodriguez has said that he will not meet with coalition members because growers do not consider the organization a legitimate farm worker representative.
Growers reject all farm worker advocacy groups.
Like Bush, Rodriguez is being disingenuous. Part of the reason that I aspire to serve is to create the best possible climate for the greatest number of people, so that they can pursue their dreams independently. And part of that is getting a good wage. Yes, he has garnered some modest gains in less controversial areas, such as housing and health care. But the lack of a living wage is at the core of farm workers' problems.