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Richard Epstein explains the economic problems inherent to organized labor, describes how public policy has locked them into place, and cautions against the strand of conservative populism that aims to develop an alternative union model for the 21st century.
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This is must listen. This is a much more granular way of saying that unions aren’t the answer to all of the wage deflation we are importing, and the automation that is destroying jobs. The Republicans need to seriously think about this.
Why are unions exempt from Sherman Anti Trust act?
Public sector unions are problematic for many reasons especially their pensions.
Public sector unions should not be allowed to make political contributions. They should not take an active voice in selecting the politician they will be negotiating future contracts with.
Why aren’t politicians who take union money recused from decisions on union issues?
Epstein concludes that Trump is getting labor policy mostly right, while Biden would be an “unmitigated disaster”. I think those were his exact words.
That’s right… public sector employees are paid by taxpayers. If they want a raise, they should negotiate with taxpayers directly via direct ballot initiatives like propositions and referenda.
Public sector unions should not be allowed to make political contributions.
Maybe public sector employees should not be allowed to make political contributions at all or if they do, they can contribute as individuals not as a union.