Labor Movements

Labor Unions have been a declining force in American politics since the 1950's. Today though, a report was released saying union membership grew this year, for the first time since 1999. Despite this news, union members grew at the rate of the economy, so they represent 12.5 percent of the workforce, same as in 2004. Stats were included, which show union members given almost 30% higher wages than non-union members, and wage increases in wages last year of 2.6%, compared to 1.6% of non-union members. Also today, the Transit Workers Union, responsible for the NYC transit strikes in December, narrowly rejected the MTAs contract offer. Perhaps a slight increase in union power is surfacing, as "trickle down" economics continue to fail the common workers, and push them to become less content with their situations, and more willing to resort to drastic, risky measure, like strikes.

I report this because labor unions are long time supporters of the Democratic Party, and represent a huge portion of their campaign contributions.