Labor Unions Show Popularity, But Americans Divided on Their Impact

Saturday, 7 September 2024, 16:23

Labor unions are largely popular in the U.S., but a new survey reveals Americans are divided on their overall influence. According to the YouGov survey, while 59% view unions positively, 26% see them negatively. This divide highlights significant differences in public perception.
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Labor Unions Show Popularity, But Americans Divided on Their Impact

Understanding the Popularity of Labor Unions

A recent survey found that while labor unions are largely popular in the U.S., Americans are divided on the strength of their influence. The YouGov survey, released Friday, shows 59 percent of Americans see unions in a "very" or "somewhat" positive light. On the opposite side, 26 percent said they see them in a "somewhat" or "very" negative light.

Public Perception and Union Impact

The pollster noted that while some believe unions result in more frequent strikes and higher consumer costs, others laud the success organizations have had with increasing worker salaries and giving workers more power and job satisfaction.

The Unions in Spotlight

Labor unions — such as United Auto Workers (UAW), AFL-CIO and the International Brotherhood of Teamsters — have come into the spotlight in recent months as Vice President Harris and former President Trump have battled for their backing ahead of November's election.

Survey Results on Union Influence

  • Asked about the influence level labor unions have had "over the past year," 26 percent said they are stronger.
  • 31 percent said "not much change" has occurred, the survey found.

UAW and the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) have already endorsed Harris in the election, after President Biden stepped aside. The Teamsters have yet to announce if they will back a candidate.

  • Union President Sean O'Brien addressed the Republican National Convention in July, emphasizing the importance of American workers.
  • The union is hosting a roundtable later this month with Harris and union members.
  • Americans' Attitude Varies by Occupation

    • The unions with the most favorable ratings were:
      1. Firefighters (71 percent)
      2. Nurses (68 percent)
      3. Construction workers (67 percent)
    • Those with the least favorable opinion were related to:
      1. University instructors (30 percent)
      2. Actors (30 percent)
      3. Government employees (30 percent)

    The YouGov survey, conducted between August 22-24, features 1,130 respondents and a margin of error of 3.8 percentage points.


    This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.


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