IvanB,

I don't have direct proof of how my union spends my dues, but I know the union always *strongly* encourages us to vote for Democratic candidates & I have heard, repeatedly, that monies from the teachers' union are given to the Democratic Party. I happen to be a Republican. I do resent that my money is taken, whether I support the union, philosophically, or not. This year, I am a member solely because it is the only way I can get help w/ dental benefits (I'd be out the money, anyway.). I am not against all unions, but I think some have gotten carried away. And, the only times I had disputes (both of which ended w/ me losing my job), the union wasn't able to help at all.

bbc