For the last year, union leaders have tried to push Mayor Rahm Emanuel into focusing on other issues: smaller class sizes, more art and music programs and job security.

At some prospering businesses like Caterpillar, which reports earnings tomorrow, record corporate profits do not necessarily raise workers pay.

Some 40,000 AT&T workers could strike this weekend if contract negotiations fail.

A strike by the union representing office building workers hasn't happened in more than a decade, but Occupy Wall Street and the 99 percent mentality have given union members more confidence lately.