Mike Podhorzer, former political director of the AFL-CIO, discusses the surge of activity in the labor movement and the connection between the fight for democracy and labor rights. He also highlights the threat to democracy posed by Donald Trump and the Republican Party, the future of democracy in relation to the upcoming 2024 election, the impact of the labor movement in Michigan, and the importance of understanding beliefs, media influence, and mobilization.
Strong labor unions are necessary to resist threats to democracy and ensure a better balance of power against corporations and racial division.
Labor unions and fair maps have played a role in flipping the partisan balance in states like Michigan, highlighting the importance of organized labor in shaping the political landscape.
Deep dives
Importance of Organized Labor in Democracy
The ability of working people to act collectively is essential for a healthy democracy. Labor unions play a crucial role in balancing power and ensuring that all voices are heard. Strong labor unions are necessary to resist threats to democracy, as historically seen in places where authoritarianism thrives and unions are abolished. States where labor unions have significant power tend to have easier access to voting, higher minimum wages, and a better balance of power against corporations and racial division. Strong labor unions are fundamental to the functioning of a democratic society.
The Influence of Labor Unions in Politics
Labor unions have a significant impact on politics and elections. The Republican Party, in particular, has targeted labor unions as part of its agenda, recognizing the power of organized labor. The Federalist Society was instrumental in creating a jurisprudence that justified anti-union policies and helped deconstruct democracy. Citizens United further exacerbated the influence of billionaires in state-level elections, leading to Republican victories in many state legislatures. Labor unions and fair maps have played a role in flipping the partisan balance in states like Michigan, highlighting the importance of organized labor in shaping the political landscape.
The Threats to Democracy and the Role of Polling
The threats to democracy are real, but there is hope in the rejection of Trump and MAGA by a significant portion of the American population. The Republican Party's ability to mobilize its voters effectively and the media's focus on a functioning two-party system contribute to the disconnect in perceiving these threats. Polling, while useful in some contexts, cannot accurately predict election outcomes a year in advance, especially in key battleground states. Understanding the impact of voting rules and redistricting over time is essential, as these factors significantly influence election results. By recognizing the scale of disinformation and the beliefs held by those consuming it, the urgency of protecting democracy becomes clearer.
Looking Ahead to 2024 and Beyond
Looking ahead to the 2024 election, it is crucial to look beyond polling and focus on the impact of rules and grassroots organizing. The significance lies in closely contested states where a few thousand votes can determine the outcome. Changes in voting rules, redistricting, and fair maps have the potential to shift the partisan balance in favor of either party. Media reporting plays a vital role in mobilizing public sentiment, and when the mainstream media accurately conveys the threats to democracy, it can galvanize action. Recognizing the level of dedication from those supporting Trump and MAGA is essential in strategizing for the future and protecting democratic values.
Recently, labor unions have exercised power in ways not seen in decades. Former political director of the AFL-CIO Mike Podhorzer joins the podcast to discuss the surge of activity in the labor movement, how the fight for democracy and labor rights are connected and what you should look out for as we get closer to the 2024 election.