Why The American Middle-Class Needs Unions

The Takeaway

Last night in Wisconsin, voters weighed in on whether Governor Scott Walker would stay in office. The recall began with protests over Governor Walker’s attempts to curb union bargaining power in Wisconsin. However, as the election approached it grew into a divisive political fight, with $60 million on both sides.  
Whether or not the Wisconsin recall will prove to be a bellweather for the 2012 presidential election, it is certain to have implications for the future of labor unions throughout the country. Joe Nocera, Op-Ed Columnist for our partner the New York Times, explains how the decline of labor unions has worsened income inequality — and why middle-class Americans should be concerned.

Will you support The World?

The story you just read is not locked behind a paywall because listeners and readers like you generously support our nonprofit newsroom. Now more than ever, we need your help to support our global reporting work and power the future of The World. Can we count on you?