BAC Call to Action: Election 2006

In November, BAC and millions of other union members will have the opportunity to decide the outcome of elections from local school boards to the U.S. Senate – IF – members and their families get out and vote. A strong turnout by voters that support candidates responsive to the causes of working families and unions will ensure a victory.

Union members already have a good track record of being active citizens and voters. In the last five election cycles, union households accounted for more than a fourth of the voters. But, as the last several election cycles have shown, we need to increase this rate to win. The recent primary election in Ohio for the 6th Representative District is a clear example of how greater voter turnout can influence an election outcome. Labor-endorsed candidate Charlie Wilson won due to a strong labor turnout.

Also working in labor’s favor is the growing dissatisfaction among American voters with the Administration’s positions on Social Security, their handling of the war in Iraq, response to the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina, soaring gas prices, and rising interest rates. Adding to these factors is the widespread corruption stemming from business lobbyist Jack Abramoff’s ties to former Republican House Majority Leader Tom Delay to the incarceration of former Republican Representative Randy “Duke” Cunningham for accepting bribes. Heading into this election cycle, President Bush and his Administration’s approval rating has dropped, with a majority of Americans dissatisfied with the state of the country.

Historically, there has been a significant drop-off in voter participation during midterm elections. This overall drop-off can increase labor’s chance to cast deciding votes in this election. But that’s only if members and their families vote. Don’t let anti-union forces decide your future – get out and vote in November.