In a re-aired podcast episode, union leader Sara Nelson discusses how organized labor could challenge the Trump administration’s policies. The conversation highlights unions’ unified response to actions on immigration and federal workforce reductions. Originally from April, the episode underscores labor’s potential as a counterweight in 2025.
The Slate podcast "What Next" featured Sara Nelson, international president of the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, AFL-CIO, in an episode titled "The Flight Attendant Who Wants You to Go on Strike." Re-aired as part of the 2025 in Review series on December 22, 2025, the discussion explores whether organized labor represents a "sleeping giant" capable of halting Trump’s agenda.
Nelson addresses the Trump administration’s moves on immigration and the dismissal of federal workers, which have provoked backlash from diverse unions, including building trades and graduate student groups. The episode questions the impact of labor uniting in opposition: "What happens when labor speaks as one?"
Drawing historical parallels, the podcast description notes, "The same way we got out of 19th century working conditions is how we’re going to keep from going back." This reflects Nelson’s advocacy for strikes and collective action to protect workers’ rights amid potential policy reversals.
Hosted by Mary Harris, the daily news podcast aims to unpack overwhelming news stories. The original April episode captures early concerns about labor’s role post-election, with the re-airing providing a year-end reflection on unchanged dynamics. Production credits include Elena Schwartz, Paige Osburn, and others, emphasizing Slate’s commitment to in-depth reporting.
Keywords like labor, 2025-in-review, and Trump frame the conversation, positioning unions as a vital check on executive power. No specific timeline of events beyond the administration’s actions is detailed, but the focus remains on proactive union strategies.
