The Meany-Reuther Conflict

A good part of the comment about the dispute inside the AFL-CIO has been empty of understanding. Reporters have made much of the votes inside the Executive Council, but these votes have limited meaning. Jacob Potofsky of the Amalgamated Clothing Workers is recorded as supporting Meany’s position, but his union has publicly declared itself for the recognition of Red China. Does anyone really suppose, then, that he supports Meany’s foreign policy? There is a tradition of public unanimity at the Council level, and it is precisely this tradition of unanimity with which Reuther is breaking. The Council votes mean little; it is what happens in the field that will be important.

Reuther has, in effect, decided to give up stand...