Sinclair commentator denigrates the labor movement in a “must-run” segment

The segment is airing on Sinclair news stations across the country, including at stations with unionized staff

Written by Pam Vogel

Published

A “must-run” segment from Sinclair Broadcast Group’s chief political commentator Boris Epshteyn condemned the organized labor movement and attempted to make a case for why viewers should oppose unions. 

In the October 1 segment, Epshteyn told viewers, “Imagine you’re the hardest worker on your team, the most efficient, and the most successful. But instead of being rewarded for your hard work, another employee reaps your benefits because he is part of a union.” Epshteyn also condemned members of the United Auto Workers Union for taking part in an ongoing strike at General Motors. He concluded, “Liberal-leaning big labor unions hurt competition in the workforce and negatively impact our economy as a whole.” 

The segment aired on at least 48 Sinclair-controlled stations in 26 states and the District of Columbia during October 1 and October 2 local news broadcasts. Many Sinclair-owned or -operated stations have unionized employees, and in some cases the unions have helped speak out against Sinclair “must-run” programming and other top-down corporate management decisions. 

From the October 1 edition of Sinclair Broadcast Group's Bottom Line With Boris

BORIS EPSHTEYN (HOST): Imagine you’re the hardest worker on your team, the most efficient, and the most successful. But instead of being rewarded for your hard work, another employee reaps your benefits because he is part of a union. Sadly, this is an all too common occurrence in today’s workforce.

Labor unions are known for leaning to the left, monopolizing the labor force, reducing competition, and collectively bargaining for steep wage increases. Supporters argue that unions provide members with benefits, like higher pay and better health care.

But the truth is that as a member you are forced to pay into a union, cannot negotiate your own salary, and your funds can be donated to a political candidate or party that you do not support. Unions not only reduce market competition, but hurt businesses -- especially when a labor union goes on strike.

Most recently, 48,000 members of the United Auto Workers Union working for General Motors decided to hold a days-long strike demanding more benefits. According to analysts, the strike has cost GM approximately $100 million per day.

Here's the bottom line: Job security, pay, and health care are important for all workers. However, liberal-leaning big labor unions hurt competition in the workforce and negatively impact our economy as a whole.

Epshteyn’s segment typically airs on local stations along with a second segment from liberal commentator Ameshia Cross. Cross’ segment in this instance largely cheered recent actions by labor unions.