Michael Arria at Truthout reports President Donald Trump launched a war against Workers as soon as he reclaimed power in January 2025. Now, nearly a year into his second Administration, it’s possible to take stock of the year’s notable victories for Organized Labor and the challenges looming in 2026. While the climate for Workers has undeniably become more hostile, 2025 still saw its share of significant Labor wins - nonetheless. After a brief Strike in October 2024, Dock Workers on the East and Gulf Coasts approved a contract that raises wages by more than 60% over the course of six years and assures jobs are guaranteed as employers move toward automation. During the Summer, Teachers in Philadelphia reached an agreement with the School District, narrowly averting a Strike. In addition to securing bonuses, a new sick day policy and yearly raises for all Bargaining Unit Members, the new contract offers five weeks of paid parental leave, a historic first for the District. After a series of marches and rallies, California Grocery Workers at Kroger and Albertsons brand stores ratified new contracts that include wage increases, a new pension plan and enhanced health care benefits. After three years of bargaining, Workers at The Daily News secured their first contract in over 30 years, establishing minimum salaries, wage increases and new benefits for Part-Time Employees. In a landmark decision, Unionized Journalists at POLITICO and E&E News (PEN Guild) prevailed in an arbitration case against POLITICO management over the company’s adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) at the website. The arbitrator found POLITICO violated its collective bargaining agreement by adopting two AI-powered editorial products without the necessary, negotiated safeguards.

To Read This Labor News Report In Its Entirety, Go To: Despite Trump’s War on Workers, Labor Movement Notched Crucial Wins in 2025 | Truthout