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Union Dues: $915 Million Spent on Politics, Not Members

12/5/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The Commonwealth Foundation reports that the four largest public-sector unions spent $915 million on elections and progressive activism in the 2024 election cycle, with 86% funded by member dues.
The spending surpassed funds allocated for member services, prompting concerns that unions prioritize political agendas over member support.
David Osborne of the Commonwealth Foundation questions whether union members know how their dues are used.
The unions did not respond to comment requests.

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Story summary

The Commonwealth Foundation reports that the four largest public-sector unions spent $915 million on elections and progressive activism in the 2024 election cycle, with 86% funded by member dues.
The spending surpassed funds allocated for member services, prompting concerns that unions prioritize political agendas over member support.
David Osborne of the Commonwealth Foundation questions whether union members know how their dues are used.
The unions did not respond to comment requests.