Unions were able to build America’s middle class by demanding higher wages, benefits, worker protection and ensuring a safe work environment, Obama said. “So it’s inexcusable that, over the past several years, just when middle-class families and workers need that kind of security the most, there’s been a sustained, coordinated assault on unions, led by powerful interests and their allies in government,” he said....."
Domestic vs. international/diplomatic. Elevated status.