The article argues that Elon Musk’s actions threaten democracy by undermining labor unions, which historically serve as a crucial check against oligarchy. The author references Supreme Court Justice Louis Brandeis, emphasizing that democracy and concentrated wealth cannot coexist. The history of autocratic regimes shows that targeting unions is a common tactic for oligarchs.
The article also highlights Trump’s efforts to dismantle union power, including firing key labor board members and pushing initiatives that would hinder collective organization. It identifies Musk’s aims to weaken the Department of Labor as part of a broader agenda to protect corporate interests and diminish worker rights.
Unions are portrayed as essential for fostering collective power, which manifests in higher political participation and social progress. They convert individual grievances into organized demands, offering a counterbalance to the vast power wielded by corporations and billionaires, particularly since the Citizens United ruling.
Public trust in unions has grown, as evidenced by recent successes from unions like the UAW, WGA, and SAG-AFTRA. The AFL-CIO’s initiatives reflect a renewed focus on combating oligarchic abuses. The author concludes by stressing that rebuilding democracy requires a strong labor movement, as evidenced by historical examples where unions helped topple dictators. Ultimately, the article calls for recognizing the pivotal role of unions in restoring democracy and addressing inequality.
