U.S. workers have gained momentum in strikes with Lee Saunders discussing the power of workers in 2024. Emily Peck provides a big picture view. Topics include labor union meetings, worker demands, support for public service workers, advocacy for worker rights, equality among unions, legislative changes, and empowering collective action through informed voting.
2023 saw a significant increase in U.S. worker strikes, highlighting worker momentum and demands for better pay and conditions.
Union leverage in 2024 is crucial, with examples like the steelworkers opposing major deals and influencing political outcomes.
Deep dives
Increased Worker Momentum in 2024
Workers in the U.S. are currently experiencing significant momentum and leverage, as seen by the rise in strikes and worker engagement. In 2023, the number of U.S. workers on strike more than doubled due to major strikes in various industries, such as healthcare, manufacturing, media, and education, involving a total of 350,100 workers. The top demands from striking workers included better pay, improved health and safety, and increased staffing.
Peak Leverage for Unions in 2024
2024 presents a moment of peak leverage for unions in the U.S., with the United Steel Workers exemplifying this by opposing a $15 billion deal with Japan-based Nippon Steel. Both Biden and Trump are courting union votes, highlighting the influence of labor in key battleground states like Pennsylvania and Michigan. The steelworkers are emphasizing national security concerns and engaging with lawmakers to prevent the deal.
Labor Movement's Focus on Legislation and Political Engagement
The labor movement is advocating for legislative changes such as the Public Service Freedom to Negotiate Act and the PRO Act to enhance worker rights and collective bargaining powers. The challenges lie in the current political landscape, acknowledging the need for shifts in Congress to support laws that promote stronger worker voices. The importance of engaging members on voting decisions and highlighting the connection between politics and workplace conditions remains central to the labor movement's strategy.
U.S. workers today have enormous momentum and leverage. 2023 was a year of walkouts, with the number of U.S. workers on strike more than doubling. Lee Saunders is president of AFSCME, one of the country's largest unions, and he says with workers engaged as never before, this is the moment to make progress for American labor. The power of workers in 2024, and how one union leader wants to wield it.
Plus, Axios markets correspondent Emily Peck with the big picture.
Guests: Lee Saunders, the president of the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees; Emily Peck, markets correspondent for Axios.
Credits: 1 big thing is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, and Jay Cowit. Music is composed by Alex Sugiura and Jay Cowit. You can reach us at podcasts@axios.com. You can send questions, comments and story ideas as a text or voice memo to Niala at 202-918-4893.