Silence from Rep. Gabe Evans Amidst Colorado Meatpacking Strike
In a notable absence of support, Republican Representative Gabe Evans did not back the workers on strike at a key meatpacking plant situated in his Colorado district.
The strike at the JBS Foods facility in Greeley involved approximately 3,800 employees and lasted for 19 days starting in March. The workers successfully negotiated for better pay, bonuses, and company-funded protective gear.
This event marked the first significant strike in the meatpacking sector in over four decades.
Union president Kim Cordova, who played a pivotal role in organizing the strike, shared with the Associated Press that the workers braved the cold to “because they knew their worth and refused to be disrespected.”
During the strike period, Evans chose not to publicly support the workers, unlike other Colorado lawmakers who extended their backing. The union, representing JBS Foods employees, noted contacts from Sen. John Hickenlooper and various state legislators, but Evans remained absent.
On February 23, days after the strike vote, Evans’ reelection campaign received a $5,000 contribution from the JBS Foods PAC. The PAC had also donated $5,000 to him the previous year.
Evans has further financial backing from Cornerstone Government Affairs’ senior employees, receiving over $10,000 between 2024 and 2025. This firm has represented JBS Foods since 2023.
In January 2025, Evans publicly commended JBS Foods, describing it as “a vital part of Weld County’s workforce and economy,” and posted a photo with Wesley Batista Filho, CEO of JBS North America Operations.
JBS Foods has faced numerous allegations of labor and safety violations historically, leading to multiple OSHA complaints and civil suits. In 2025, JBS paid the federal government $4 million after it was found that their cleaning contractor employed over 100 minors, aged 13 to 17, unlawfully.
Jessica Looman from the Labor Department commented on the situation, stating, “The department’s work uncovering a systemic disregard for the safety of children resulted in meaningful commitments to stop and prevent child labor exploitation.”
Currently, JBS Foods is under a federal antitrust investigation.
As Evans seeks a second term, he is seen as one of the most vulnerable Republicans in the House facing reelection. His Democratic opponent will emerge from a June 30 primary.
Two Democrats, former State Rep. Shannon Bird and current State Rep. Manny Rutinel, are in the race against Evans. Both candidates joined the picket line during the JBS Foods strike.
The post Gabe Evans stayed silent as Colorado meatpacking workers went on strike appeared first on American Journal News.
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