But it is uncertain how strong the bond of protectionism really is. The labor-green coalition didn't get their seat at the table in Seattle, but they did scuttle the trade talks, which is what they wanted. Yet while the violent protests derailed progress on trade, they impose some unintended long-term consequences for labor. In joining forces with radical environmentalists, labor could alienate the very business and political leaders they need to please. Certainly, together, they have an advantage in terms of numbers, but the environmental lobby certainly is very radical, and that could hurt labor.
Organized labor can ill-afford to lose any more influence, especially as manifested in size.
Currently, organized labor comprises a mere 14 percent of the workforce, and its numbers are declining. The new leadership of the AFL-CIO and the Teamsters have aggressively sought younger workers, but their willingness to engage with the far left could turn away prospective members. Teamsters President James Hoffa said that he would be more open to the Republican party. But the labor-green coalition is absorbing organized labor into the left fringe of the Democratic party. But union members do not agree.