The Future Of Organized Labor In American Politics

In 1995 promising a more active political presence for unions John Sweeneywas elected president of the AFLCIO. Labor would develop a new voice onethat could not... » 

In 1995 promising a more active political presence for unions John Sweeneywas elected president of the AFLCIO. Labor would develop a new voice onethat could not be ignored or taken for granted by Democratic and Republicanpoliticians. However by the summer of 2005 opposition to Sweeneys leadershipthreatened to divide the labor movement.In The Future of Organized Labor in American Politics Peter L. Franciadiscusses the effects of Sweeneys controversial tenure as president andassesses labors influence on American political elections and legislation.Drawing on interviews with union and business leaders as well as campaignfinance and publicopinion data Francia argues that Sweeney has employed amore effective and expansive grassroots political operation than hispredecessors. He challenges critics who dismiss Sweeneys efforts as a failurebut cautions that the decline in union membership presents a serious crisis forthe labor movement.When unions emphasize grassroots strategies they can effectively competeagainst the financial power of big business and can make a significantdifference in congressional politics. Francia analyzes organized laborspolitical activities its coalitions with other interest groups and itsinfluence on voter turnout election results and votes in Congress. He alsoexamines the effects of Sweeneys embrace of progressive causes and laborsincreasing willingness to challenge Democrats who vote against laborsinterests.For all his successes Sweeneys tenure has not been without its problems.Labors presence in American politics is threatened by shrinking membership inunions. Francia suggests that if unions want to remain a viable political forcein congressional politics they must devote more resources to organizingworkers. «