Big Labor's unprecedented campaign to put Democrat Hillary Rodham into the Oval Office could have a big payoff.
Union leaders are plotting to use momentum from the potential victory to power a new expansion inside corporate walls and business sites.
"And after the ballots are counted and the elections have been won, we'll be in a better position to organize in the workplace, and win strong contracts and better pay," promised AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka in a speech to glassworkers convention in Las Vegas this week.
"This is our moment," he said. "Let me tell you something: This year, America's labor movement is unleashing the most comprehensive electoral program in our history," he added at the Glass, Molders, Pottery, Plastics & Allied Workers International Union meeting this week.
Trumka has announced several initiatives to boost the Democratic union vote and is calling on members to help out like never before.
"Our strength grows from our unity. It comes from our activism. It's up to us to motivate each other. We need your help. I'm asking you to talk to your members. Ask them to volunteer and turn out like never before. If you haven't done it already, talk to your Central Labor Council. Name a coordinator for each worksite, so we have someone to communicate with," the boss urged.
"When your membership gets involved in the ground campaign, nothing can stop us. When your members speak the truth about Donald Trump, he will crumble like a house of cards. You know what it takes. Keep leading the way. Keep blazing a trail forward. As a national movement, we've been under attack so long, that I know it can be hard to get out of a defensive crouch," he added.
In his speech, he blasted Trump for pushing "anti-unionism" policies.
"That's why on November 8, 2016, working people are going to kick Donald Trump in the ass," he added.
Paul Bedard, the Washington Examiner's "Washington Secrets" columnist, can be contacted at pbedard@washingtonexaminer.com