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Charlie Sykes: Sykes Writes

TEARING OFF THE UNION LABEL

By Charlie Sykes

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New Gallup poll suggests that da unions have taken a major PR hit this year. Somehow I don't think that the Mercury Marine story will help much.

There has been an even larger jump in the percentage saying labor unions mostly hurt the U.S. economy, from 36% in 2006 to 51% today. This is the first time since the question was established in 1997 that more Americans have said unions hurt rather than help the economy. Americans' general concerns about the current state of the economy could certainly be a factor in these more negative views of unions, in addition to specific perceptions about unions.

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  1. TerryN - Sep 04, 2009 9:12 AM

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    I've always believed organized labor was necessary since the beginning of the industrial age. Things are different today. Increased technology means there has to be a more collaborative relationship between business and their labor. Today unions stand in the way of progress. They seem to be more about self preservation then representing their constituents. I would never join an organization that took my money and sent it to politicians I may not want to vote for. Unions are an anachronism.

  2. Paladin - Sep 04, 2009 9:17 AM

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    Ask anyone in NW Indiana,Michigan,Ohio,Pa. who used to work in steel mills or automotive-related industries. The "union thinking"put them on the streets 20 years ago or more. Look at Pittsburg,Gary,In.,Detroit,Cleveland,etc.

  3. - Sep 04, 2009 9:31 AM

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    Unions were an asset to all until they became a business. Once that happened, their primary goal became one of remaining in business. Too bad many members don't understand that transition was made many years ago. Perhaps if they did, more would be decertified & jobs would return to the US.

  4. Troy - Sep 04, 2009 9:58 AM

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    I don't think all unions are bad,but that being said I think thats another thing that the majority of people don't want,but the dems will try and force it down our throats.Just think where we would be with card check,health care,climate change{global warning} stem cell research {skin cells have proven better succes}and fairness crap to name a few.Huge huge problems if the dems had their way

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