DES MOINES, Iowa (AFX) - Activists are turning to Iowa this week as they drive a bus across the state to put pressure on Wal-Mart, which has been criticized for paying workers low wages and few benefits.
It's part of a 35-day tour in 19 states by Wake Up Wal-Mart, a union-based group formed last year that has criticized the retail giant's employment practices. The group plans to spend six days in Iowa.
The group plans to be in Iowa Tuesday through Sunday, with stops scheduled in Cedar Rapids, Des Moines, Waterloo, Iowa City, Davenport and Council Bluffs.
Wake Up Wal-Mart claims that by paying low wages and few benefits, Wal-Mart indirectly receives government subsidies since its workers are eligible for programs, such as Medicaid and food stamps.
At least four potential Democratic presidential candidates plan to join the tour in Iowa.
Organizers have planned events with Gov. Tom Vilsack, Sen. Evan Bayh, D-Ind., Sen. Joe Biden, D-Del., and Democratic New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson.
Former North Carolina Sen. John Edwards has joined the tour in other states, seeking to link the campaign with a center for the study of poverty issues he has opened in North Carolina.
Democratic candidate for Iowa governor Chet Culver and his running mate Patty Judge are also planning to join the group at events.
Organizer Chris Kafinis said the goal is to pressure on Wal-Mart. He said using high-profile political leaders can help accomplish that goal.
'The goal is to increase public pressure on that company to be a responsible employer,' Kafinis said.
Wal-Mart spokesman Dan Fogleman rejected the argument, saying the drive is simply being backed by unions which haven't had much luck organizing at Wal-Mart.
'This is a union-funded publicity stunt and it's more about politics than anything else,' Fogleman said.
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