Elected in 1996 to succeed John Sweeney, Stern has become known as something of a firebrand in the AFL-CIO, adopting a strategy of aggressive organizing while sometimes vocally criticizing other union leaders and the AFL-CIO's organizing structure.
Elected in 1996 to succeed John Sweeney, Stern has had numerous clashes with other prominent leaders within the labor movement. Stern's has adopted a strategy of aggressive organizing and vocal criticism of other union leaders and the AFL-CIO's organizing structure.