A valuably argumentative and well-written analysis. - Stephen Amberg (American Political Science Review) It is a wonderful book, not the least because it traverses ground that has so rarely been covered.... Dark's book is not merely descriptive. His analytical framework draws on the exchange metaphor, in which the leadership structure of organized labor and of the political system at large are the central independent variables.... The Unions and the Democrats is a superb rendering of a very difficult subject, of interest to those who study American labor, Congress, the presidency, and recent American history. It should spur renewed study of a long-neglected subject. - John C. Gerring, Boston University (Political Science Quarterly) The book's strengths are numerous. First, it tells a fascinating story. Second, its theoretical grip is forceful. Third, it is rich in institutional detail. Fourth, it puts labor's role into the broader electoral/legislative contexts it deserves. Fifth, it is interpretively balance—not polemically annoying. The Unions and the Democrats is must reading. - Marick F. Masters (Industrial and Labor Relations Review) The Unions and the Democrats is one of the best books on both subjects in recent years.... It would be difficult to identify a book that is more informative about the political dynamics of organized labor in the United States. (Labor Watch) This welcome book provides a much needed update on the national political influence of organized labor. In a fair and balanced assessment, Dark demonstrates labor's continuing influence, even in the face of a general labor decline. (Choice) Well-documented. (Booklist)