Sherrod Brown launches pro-worker organization to reclaim workers' rights

In Columbus, Ohio, former U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown launched the Dignity of Work Institute, a pro-worker organization aimed at placing American workers at the center of national discussions. This initiative, announced on a Monday, is intended to tackle critical issues affecting the workforce such as wages, family leave, housing, education, and retirement. Brown, who recently moved to Columbus with his wife Connie Schultz, is contemplating a political comeback, considering either a gubernatorial run or a Senate candidacy in the 2026 midterm elections after losing his reelection bid for the Senate. Sherrod Brown is well known for his focus on workers’ rights during his lengthy political career, which has spanned three decades. His consistent support and advocacy for working-class voters positioned him as a pivotal figure in Democratic politics, especially as the party addresses its recent electoral challenges. Following the Republicans’ comprehensive victories in the 2024 election, where they gained control of all branches of federal government, the Dignity of Work Institute was born out of a need for reassessing the Democratic Party's alignment with the working class. In an article in The New Republic, Brown articulated a vision for the future of the Democratic Party, urging a reassessment of how it defines itself amid changing voter perceptions. He stressed the importance of the party regaining the trust and support of working-class voters, who feel alienated by the political narratives from both major political parties. His statement highlighted a growing sentiment of disconnection between the party’s traditional identity as a champion of the working class and how it is presently viewed by many voters. The Dignity of Work Institute aims to ground its strategies in research, employing polls, interviews, and other methods to gain insights into workers’ needs and concerns. Brown emphasized the necessity of keeping the organization located in the Midwest, in contrast to the predominant coastal political discourse, signaling a commitment to understanding and addressing regional issues. He reassured stakeholders that this initiative is not merely a stepping stone for potential political aspirations but reflects a serious dedication to advancing the cause of workers across America.