In every union there’s a huge chasm between union leadership and its activists, vs regular dues paying members who often must belong to the union, or who belong to the union for the benefits they bring to the table. The two sides within the unions are not to be confused.
Hubby is a retired firefighter and was a member of their union for 33 yrs. You are correct about the difference between leadership and members. I have seen some almost violent conversations between a member and the local union president at parties. lol Funny thing is I know the president very well. Like him a lot. He is mostly conservative but will push the vote for Democrats every time because they are the one who give the union what they want. He even admits it.