American workers are calling for leaders who prioritize fair salaries, job security, and flexible work options, transcending traditional union solutions.
At a Glance
- A review of labor organizing provides insights into the Biden-Harris labor agenda.
- There is an increased worker support for unions since 2018, boosted by COVID-19.
- There are Republican shifts towards pro-worker policies amid populist trends.
- Flexibility in work schedules is increasingly valued by American workers.
The American Political Economy of Labor
Recent analysis using an American Political Economy framework highlights shifts in labor organizing. Since 2018, there has been a notable increase in support for unions and collective action, a momentum further accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic. Workers across industries have mobilized through strikes and organizing drives, resulting in a 60% surge in union petitions.
Already-existing unions are leveraging a tight labor market to secure historic contract victories. However, while many celebrate these wins, the complexities of the U.S. political economy pose ongoing challenges. The Biden-Harris Administration’s labor agenda aimed to address these by supporting labor initiatives like the American Rescue Plan Act and making pro-labor appointments.
A @GOP pro-worker agenda must lean into what has traditionally made the U.S. labor market vibrant—entrepreneurial dynamism generating an abundance of work opportunities, not rigid European-style labor policy.
🇪🇺An agenda that empowers American workers through unionization and… pic.twitter.com/xaFhLl5IK8
— Liya Palagashvili (@MissLiyaP) July 29, 2024
Shifting Political Alliances
The Biden-Harris labor agenda’s impact remains uncertain, contingent on union actions, legal challenges, and the presidential election outcome. Meanwhile, recent political developments reveal a shift in support for unions within traditionally conservative spaces.
The United Auto Workers strike against General Motors is indicative of this change, with notable Republican figures increasingly backing union causes. This echoes earlier support seen during the railway strike when some conservative senators advocated for union positions.
Advocating Flexibility for Workers
Modern labor policies must account for today’s workers who prioritize flexibility, often valuing work-from-home options over higher salaries or benefits. Independent contracting and gig work remain popular, yet confront progressive legislative barriers that complicate administrative processes.
A more worker-flexibility agenda could include raising income thresholds for Form 1099 and reinforcing independent contractor statuses. Additionally, amending lease agreements could promote smoother retirement savings transitions, and policies could regulate noncompete agreement use to enhance worker flexibility and earnings.
