In an effort to coordinate a unified political message for the upcoming elections, leaders of the several unions that broke from the AFL-CIO in 2005 have been in talks with their former labor federation. The discussions have paved the way for speculation that these former unions are considering rejoining the AFL-CIO. The union presidents are trying to maximize their political cooperation, especially in swing states where unions are strong: Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.
See "Politics Has Dissidents Talking to A.F.L.-C.I.O.", Steven Greenhouse, The New York Times, July 20, 2008