Ottis 4 NP

For more than three decades, Ottis Johnson, Jr. has fought for working people—not because it was the easiest path, but because it was the right one. Guided by integrity, service, and an unwavering belief in fairness, he is seeking to serve as National President of AFGE to build a stronger, more accountable union that delivers for every member.

Since 2020, Ottis has served as National Vice President of AFGE District 14, representing federal and D.C. government employees throughout the National Capital Region and Europe – leading Europe organizing long ignored and discounted as undoable. Known for listening first, leading with conviction, and standing firm when members need a champion, he has earned the trust of workers from every background, occupation, and pay system. His belief is simple: every employee deserves respect, representation, and a voice.

His union journey began in 1994 as a steward with the United Food and Commercial Workers, where he discovered the power of standing up for others. After joining the National Gallery of Art in 2011, he became an active member of AFGE Local 1831, rising from steward to Local President and continuing today as Local Treasurer. Those experiences keep him grounded in the everyday challenges facing frontline employees.

Ottis has also served the broader labor movement with distinction. He is a member of the Executive Board of the AFL-CIO Metropolitan Washington Council, National Vice President of the AFL-CIO Maryland & DC State Federation, Chair of AFGE’s Veterans Council, and former President of AFGE Council 1. His commitment to justice and opportunity extends through his work with numerous labor and civil rights organizations, reflecting a lifetime dedicated to strengthening working families and communities.

A proud U.S. Army veteran, Ottis learned the values of discipline, teamwork, and selfless service while serving his country, including an assignment in Europe. He is also the founder and former pastor of The New Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church in Baltimore, MD, where his served his community. Those principles continue to shape his leadership today.

Above all, Ottis is a devoted husband to his wife, Tracey, and proud father of Makayla and Maleah. They remind him every day why this work matters—to leave future generations with a stronger union, greater opportunity, and a voice that cannot be ignored.

For Ottis Johnson, Jr., leadership has never been about holding office. It has always been about serving others, fighting for fairness, and ensuring that every member has a union worthy of their trust.