Just-Me-07's Blog

Is anyone else as bothered by John Edwards' comments about the union at Smithfield as I am?  I have no idea what the situation is in the Smithfield plant so I an not defending nor bashing the unions.  However, it is totaly wrong to "put" a union in place just because there are problems.  As I understand it, John Edwards said that due to the problems at the Smithfield plant, the should just let a union come in without a vote.  What happened to the  rights of the workers?  If they legally vote for a union, then by all means, allow a union to come in.  However, if they do now want a union, then why should it be forced down their throats?  If some are being intimidated, the put it to secret ballot and let the workers truly voice their opinions.

I must admit that due to my job, I don't get to watch the news as much as I would like and maybe everyone else knows what is going on there.  My point is, if the problems are safety issues, then OSHA could take care of it, not a union.  If it is labor related only, the let the workers vote.  A union should not be forced down anyones throat.  I have never been in the position to have to deal with a union but as I understand it, if the workers want a union, they first gather signatures on a petition to put it to a vote (I think this is the area where the intimidation comes in).  If enough workers sign the petition, then it is voted on by secret ballot, just like our government elections.  If this is wrong, I am sure that someone will correct me but I know for a fact that this is something that should be voted on, secretly, not just forced on the workers.

Makes me wonder just how much money the labor unions have donated to the Edwards' campaign.