Unions at a Crossroads

This year, several large unions withheld their endorsements for a presidential candidate – a move that upset Democrats, because the majority of unions have always endorsed Democratic candidates. This was reflective of a shift that’s been happening since the 2016 election, with more and more union members moving to the right.

This division was on display when labor reporter Lauren Kaori Gurley visited the Ford auto plant in Wayne, Michigan, a factory in a critical swing state. Workers told her that they listen to MSNBC and Joe Rogan while they work and wear shirts in support of former president Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris. Some said they were still undecided. 

Host Martine Powers spoke with Lauren about why this shift to the right has happened and what workers at the auto plant told her about how they’re deciding whom to vote for.

Today’s show was produced by Sabby Robinson, with help from Emma Talkoff. It was mixed by Sean Carter. And edited by Reena Flores, with help from Monica Campbell. Thanks to Mike Madden. 

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