Why
are we involved in politics?
Big Business contributes
tremendous amounts of money to political candidates
and to lobbyists that protect their interests. In
the last election, labor unions were outspent
11 to 1 in political races.
Market Share represents the amount of the grocery
industry that is represented by the union. The
government dictates the ability that unions have
to represent employees and it determines incentives,
such as tax breaks, that will be given to companies
that are interested in doing business in our
area.
Workplace Issues such as overtime, health and
safety standards, family and medical leave and
protections for those with disabilities are directed
by the government.
We can be successful against
big business since
we have something that they don't: the ability
to mobilize our members and turn them out to
the polls on election day.
How do we determine which candidates we support
or oppose?
Local 1167 considers two factors when endorsing
a candidate: their voting
records and positions
on key workplace issues. The Local does
not endorse on the basis of political affiliation.
Those that have voting
records with labor on
key issues in the past are offered the support
of the Local while those that have voted against
the Local are opposed.
Since many politicians have not held elected
office, the Local must rely on their positions
on key workplace issues. These candidates
are sent a questionnaire from the Local. The
results are compared against others in the race
and the candidate that advocates for our issues
is endorsed, regardless
of his or her political party.
How can you
get involved?
The Local vigorously
supports candidates in federal, state and local
elections by precinct walking,
phone banking and stuffing envelopes. The more involvement
the Local has in the political process, the more
responsive politicians are to our concerns! If
you are interested in volunteering, please contact
your representative. You can find his or
her phone number and extension through their
web page.