I Can Whistle Dixie, Can You?

Well, Wisconsin and a few other states are still trying to break down the unions. Fair enough. But before they do that, they should consider whether or not they are being disingenuous. See, they want to destroy the unions based on the reasoning that the unions are at fault for the dire financial straits of the states. Or that Corporate leaders want them destroyed. But they should be fair about it and they're not. I have no problem with asking the unions to take a hit on wages and benefits and I've suggested the Governors and Legislators do the same. But the Governors and Legislators want to eliminate collective bargaining as well. Now how does that square with the Governors and Legislators? Why, they simply vote themselves a raise. They don't have to negotiate with anyone but themselves. Now, to be fair, some states solved that problem by voting a process into being whereby they automatically get pay raises unless they vote not to. A somewhat slippery approach. Again, fair enough. How about passing a new law that states they can not receive any increase unless the people of the state vote to approve by a two thirds majority. Same idea for corporate executives might be a good idea. What are the chances of the Legislators and Governors voting for that kind of a bill? Yep, that's what I think too. But the thing is, if Governors and Legislators are unwilling to take a hit on wages and benefits and are unwilling to give up their own ability to increase their wages and benefits, why should they expect union members to be willing to give up theirs? I suppose it's because we should all be willing to trust Governors and Legislators to be fair and above reproach. After all, they're just humble politicians seeking to do what's best for their constituents and themselves, but mostly themselves and those who put them in office. I speak not of the electorate, but of the corporations and very rich who finance the political machinery necessary to gain prominence and exposure. As to the electorate. Well as a member of the electorate, try getting a face to face with any elected official at that level when a fat cat is in the room. Not even being able to whistle "Dixie" will help.