The typical union member often identifies more closely with the local union than with the other union levels.

Although unions claim to operate under a democratic ideal, in reality, the typical union member has less say in the way the union operates than most citizens have in their governments or most stockholders have in their corporations.

The national or international union in the United States occupies the "kingpin" position in organized labor because of its influence in collective bargaining.

The AFL$-$CIO recognizes the principle of autonomy by allowing each affiliated union to conduct its own affairs, have its own headquarters, determine its own economic policies and services, and carry out its own contract negotiations.

In response to the exposure of the illegal actions of some union leaders and to give its executive council the authority to suspend any affiliated union with corrupt practices, the AFL$-$CIO established the Ethical Practices Committee.

The Democratic Party places the greatest emphasis on passing 'right$-$to$-$work laws.