http://www.csmonitor.com/USA/Politics/2011/0218/Wisconsin-protests-why-week-of-rage-matters-to-rest-of-America
Aside from the labor unrest in Wisconsin, analysts are now speculating that there could be further spread from the issue. Analysts are concerned whether or not attacks on unions' ability to collectively bargain (the manner in which they secure their wages and benefits) could be in jeopardy. They fear this could spread to other states, but from the article it seems this fear is based primarily on the large Republican leadership change in Midwestern states, due to coming redistricting in the coming year. Is their fear rationally founded?
First, I'm not sure if it's just me but is it not offense for Senator Hatch (R) of Utah to refer to the protesters as "A bunch of self-interested government union employees who are putting their interests ahead of the interests of the Wisconsin taxpayers, who have been funding their runaway spending. This is not the way public servants should behave."
ReplyDeletePublic servants? That doesn't seem politically correct. It sounds like Ohio and Michigan have bills in the making that targets unions as well. I think the fear is legitimate. I could see other states pushing for similar legislation since it seems like it will eventually turn in to a battle between the two parties.
I agree with Dave in that it will most likely end up becoming a battle between the two parties. Also, keeping in mind that the Governor in Wisconsin is Republican and so is our Governor and there has been a considerable shit towards the party in the passed elections, I think we can expect these Midwest states to follow the spending cut policy and tread the same path as Wisconsin.
ReplyDeleteIt is a little strange that the power has shifted from Democrats to Republicans in the Midwest over the last year. Major power has shifted, partially because it is not really about party lines, but about promises that are made and will be achieved. People are tired of being in this economic state and they do not care who will change it, as long as it happens. This leads to party reversal. It is scary that the same thing that is so publicly seen in Wisconsin is happening in Michigan too, but on a smaller scale. It is also scary that these protests are being compared to Egypt. Let's hope a revolt of that magnitude does not happen here and it stays as a semi-peaceful boycott.
ReplyDeleteIn general, unions are not my favorite. I know its the principle, but most public servants don't truly need the right to bargain. On the other hand, the right to collectively bargain would help out agricultural workers.
ReplyDeleteBack on topic.
The liberal urban populations are fearing who their conservative, rural and suburban counter parts elected.
I can also see Michigan and other midwest states taking on similar legislation because of this shift in political power. As Brooks mentioned, so many people in these states have been suffering so bad financially that they just want to see change. If new legislation means that we can put an end to this economic state, I can see many people jumping on that band wagon. I hope that things here in Michigan don't get to the point that they are in Wisconsin.
ReplyDeleteGiven Gov. Snyder's proposed budget that includes changes in unions, I would also have to say that policies similar to Wisconsin's will likely be adopted in other midwest states. Also, like Brooks said, it is frightening to think about how these protests are being compared to Egypt.
ReplyDeleteIf you didnt vote for these people, go ahead and complain. If you did vote for them, I have little sympathy for you. You get what you ask for and then some. I think that there have to be some changes to union structure and operations. I think that union members are overpaid in this country, and have only their interests in mind during negotiations. They have little concern for the non-union worker. They never seem to be paid enough despite the fact that their job functions have changed very little. If I am off base, then I apologize.
ReplyDelete