Workers continue to face challenges ensuring their safety on the job, with threats extending beyond problematic employers. At the federal level, the Project 2025 playbook, endorsed by the far right, poses significant risks to unions, federal employees, and the influence of agencies like the National Labor Relations Board. The Heritage Foundation’s comprehensive 900-page action plan for a future Republican administration, crafted by various right-wing think tanks and former members of Trump’s team, outlines potential impacts on labor. James Goodwin, policy director at the Center for Progressive Reform, has analyzed this document to understand its implications for the workforce.
Maximillian Alvarez, the editor-in-chief of The Real News Network, and author of “The Work of Living,” engaged in a discussion with Goodwin. Alvarez inquired about the potential effects on unions if Project 2025 were implemented. Goodwin responded, highlighting that the plan envisages stringent oversight and regulation of unions while deregulating employers, aligning with traditional conservative labor policies and a new Christian vision of the family.
Laura Flanders explored the contradiction between Republicans’ advocacy for states’ rights and Project 2025’s intent to centralize power within the executive branch. Goodwin identified this as a core paradox, citing Russ Vought’s chapter that envisions transferring federal power to the presidency before supposedly returning it to the public, although specifics remain unclear.
The concept of Section F, aimed at converting civil-service protected federal employees into at-will employees, was also examined. Goodwin explained that this proposal would dismantle the apolitical foundations of the administrative state by prioritizing loyalty to the president over professional expertise.
Regarding the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), Goodwin noted that Project 2025 seeks structural changes to dissolve independent agencies like the NLRB, thereby increasing presidential control.
Flanders raised concerns about the unification of various right-wing think tanks in producing Project 2025 and questioned its association with Trump. Goodwin noted the involvement of many former Trump administration officials and acknowledged the support from Trump’s super PACs.
Alvarez asked about the potential impact on workers attempting to organize or raise safety concerns without union support. Goodwin depicted a grim scenario where overtime pay and civil rights protections are diminished, making it challenging for workers to unite against growing industry disparities.
Alvarez also touched upon the alignment of corporate interests with Project 2025, drawing parallels with the “Death Star” Bill in Texas. Goodwin suggested that while businesses might favor deregulation and tax cuts, they could be uneasy with authoritarian and nationalist elements that could impact operations, such as issues with immigration and governmental retribution for non-compliance with conservative values.
