From Detroit to Hollywood, labor unions are making a statement to America, “We’re still here.” This year, more workdays have been lost to organized labor action than in any year since 2000.

What is the primary driver? It’s a combination of factors: The current rise in the rates of inflation and interest, after two decades of abnormally low numbers, along with an extremely tight labor market. The resurgence of union activity is neither unexpected nor unpredicted. As interest rates slow economic output, while the COVID-era benefits that kept many workers out of the labor pool vanish, a disconnect between employers and union officials gradually grows. READ MORE