Quote:
Originally Posted by Marshall
Is it really a good thing for government workers to collectively bargain against the taxpayers?
Isn't it true that government workers have higher wages and benefits than similar workers in the private sector?
Isn't it true that government workers don't work as hard at their jobs as private sector workers?
Isn't it true that substantial amounts of union dues paid by government workers go to the politicians who set the rate of their salaries and benefits?
Isn't it true that politicians want to keep receiving the campaign donations from government worker unions?
Isn't it true that the government isn't like the evil corporations who put profit over people?
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You bought the right wing bullshit hook, line. and sinker, didn't you. Hell, you might have swallowed the cork!
The short answer on government worker wages is "it depends." At lower skill levels, yes, government workers make more than many in private industry, especially if you look at benefits. (Of course, the question those of us on the left ask is "Why not require the private companies pay their employees decent benefits instead of "fucking them hand over fist?" Wouldn't that be better that cutting good benefits for other workers?) However, when you get to higher skill jobs, government workers make a hell of a lot less.
Take my occupation, lawyer. Government lawyers, even at the Federal level (where employees are paid way better than at the State level) make shit money. Hell, even Federal Judges make less than four or five year associates at good firms. I have no interest in serving the government in a legal position because it would be a huge pay cut. Five or six fold. More if at the State level. Much the same if true with accountants, although the disparity isn't quite a large, etc.
Let's look at Texas? What is the average salary of employees for the State of Texas? $37,365.
http://sunshinereview.org/index.php/...ernment_salary
Interestingly, that is almost identical to the median personal income of individuals with some college in the US -- $37,135
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Persona..._United_States
And as you know, the average government employee is 1) much better educated than your average private industry employee; and 2) generally has more experience at his current job.
And $37k is an entry level salary for a secretary at my law firm. HS degree, no college. And we have very generous benefits. Employee pays none of their health care, low deductible policy, 15% SEP contribution every year, one month salary bonus at Christmas, productivity bonus when he win or settle big cases, etc.
Quote:
Originally Posted by pjorourke
If the Dems think the situation in Wisconsin is a winning hand for them, they are total fooked and out of touch with the middle.
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Let's see how the recall elections go. The will be fascination. And they will attract a ton of national money on both sides. Great theater. And I'll bet the Dems get at least 3 Republicans.
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