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News Brief: Trump's Hollow Working Class Aesthetics and How Unions Can Lead a Real Resistance
Mar 19, 2025
Eric Blanc, an assistant professor of labor studies at Rutgers University and expert in labor movements, dives into the importance of unions in today's political landscape. He critiques the hollow populism of figures like Trump and Musk while advocating for a robust labor movement as a counterforce. Blanc highlights the need for increased union density to tackle inequality and discusses innovative strategies that empower the working class. The conversation also addresses the rising approval of unions, particularly among younger generations, as a means for real social change.
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Quick takeaways
- The decline in union membership since the 1950s contributes to rising inequality, underscoring the need for a stronger labor movement.
- Trump's hollow populist appeal highlights the necessity for the left to reclaim an authentic identity to better engage working-class voters.
Deep dives
The Power of Unions in Political Resistance
To address the socio-political challenges faced today, a focus on unions is essential for building working-class power and resistance. The historical decline in union membership since the 1950s correlates with rising inequality, making unions a crucial medium for workers to gain leverage against corporate elites. Current estimates indicate a mere 6% union density in the private sector, a stark reminder of the power gap that has deepened under neoliberal policies. Building a sustainable working-class movement requires organizing efforts that equip workers with the tools and confidence to advocate for their rights both within and beyond traditional electoral politics.
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