Zelizer : Dems and unions used to link their fortunes for mutual gain . In 1936 , Roosevelt said : `` The Fourth of July commemorates our political freedom . That 's declined . He says union membership down , Democrats shy away , vexing union leaders . But unions ' core mission reflects Democrats ' basic goals : financial security for workers , he says . Julian Zelizer : In era of income inequality , Democrats , unions should be allies , especially as Capitol Hill is n't .
Zelizer : Dems and unions used to link their fortunes for mutual gain . That 's declined . He says union membership down , Democrats shy away , vexing union leaders . But unions ' core mission reflects Democrats ' basic goals : financial security for workers , he says . Julian Zelizer : In era of income inequality , Democrats , unions should be allies , especially as Capitol Hill is n't .