Unions look out for economic interests of average people

Bill Strilich's June 20 letter, “Wisconsin union voters put selves above state,” perpetuates the misconception that the battle between Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker and the public employee unions was all about saving taxpayers' money. It was not.

The truth is, after initially resisting, the unions gave in to every economic concession demanded by the Walker administration, yet Walker and the GOP-controlled legislature still busted the unions. This was their goal all along, as Walker was caught on tape admitting.

Why? Because in the post-Citizens United world, unions are the only organizations that can even come close to matching the clout of the massive billionaire and corporate cash that is flowing mostly to the GOP. And unions, whatever their shortcomings, are still the only large organizations in this country looking out for the economic interests of average people.

It is amazing that the right has apparently managed to convince millions of Americans that their economic problems are the fault of teachers, firefighters and park rangers.

Columnist Richard Reeves coinedan excellent term for this: “intramural class warfare.” And while the “little people” fight among themselves, those at the top accumulate an even bigger share of the pie.

Cary A. Wiesner

West Branch