Labor’s vote tactic, and union-bashing

Re “Labor Group Takes $40-Million Aim at Midterm Elections,” Aug. 31

Some labor officials, hoping to gain new members, have made their political support contingent on politicians’ support for ending secret-ballot unionization elections.

Traditionally, working Americans have been able to choose whether they want a union by casting a personal, private vote that neither their employer nor a union official sees. But unions are demanding political support for a bill cynically called the Employee Free Choice Act, which would all but end these elections in favor of an anti-democratic open vote called “card check.” Under this method, union officials can harass, follow and target an employee until the worker has signed a petition-like card -- and once a simple majority has signed a card, the union boss represents everyone.

RICHARD BERMAN

Executive Director

Center for Union Facts

Washington

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Re “A century’s labor,” editorial, Sept. 4

The Times announces that its long history of union-bashing and union-busting is in the past. For those of us who are members of United Teachers Los Angeles, it doesn’t feel that way. The Times is unremitting in its hostility toward teachers unions and one-sided in its coverage of educational reform.

PHILIP BRIMBLE

Los Angeles