ABC Overview and Philosophy
– National U.S. trade association representing non-union construction industry
– 69 chapters and over 22,000 commercial contractors and construction-related firms
– Founded in Baltimore, Maryland in 1950
– Advocates for free enterprise and open competition in construction industry
– Designated as a Heavy Hitter by Center for Responsive Politics
– Merit shop is closely associated with ABC’s philosophy
Political Battles and Positions
– Often engages in political battles with labor unions from building trades
– Controversies arise regarding Davis-Bacon Act and Project Labor Agreements
– Positions often pit ABC against labor unions
– Advocates for non-union construction industry interests
– Plays a role in shaping policy and legislation related to construction industry
Political Contributions and Fundraising
– Rated among largest contributors to federal elections by Center for Responsive Politics
– Ranked 285th-largest donor in 2018 election cycle
– Donated over $1.6 million to federal candidates and committees
– Active involvement in political fundraising and campaign support
– Influences political landscape through financial contributions
Trade Association Ranking and Recognition
– Ranks among the 50 largest trade associations in the nation
– Recognized by Washington Business Journal
– Signifies significant influence and impact within the industry
– Demonstrates prominence and reach of ABC’s membership and activities
– Reflects the organization’s standing and reputation in the business community
Additional Resources
– ABC’s official website provides more information about the organization
– Website of Minnesota ABC chapter offers specific details about ABC
– Archived article provides historical background on ABC’s history
– The Hill article highlights the conflicts between unions and ABC Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Associated_Builders_and_Contractors
Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) is a national U.S. trade association representing the non-union construction industry. ABC is an association of 69 chapters with more than 22,000 commercial contractors and construction-related firms among its members. The association was founded in Baltimore, Maryland in 1950 to advocate "for free enterprise and open competition in the U.S. construction industry."
 | |
| Founded | 1950 |
|---|---|
| Type | Trade Association |
| Focus | Construction Industry |
| Location | |
Area served |  United States |
| Website | ABC.org |
Their positions regarding the Davis-Bacon Act and Project Labor Agreements often pit them in political battles against labor unions from the building trades.
The Center for Responsive Politics has designated ABC as a "Heavy Hitter", rating it among the largest overall contributors to federal elections over the past two decades. In the 2018 election cycle, ABC was the 285th-largest donor to federal candidates and committees, giving over $1.6 million. The group also ranks among the 50 largest trade associations in the nation according to Washington Business Journal.
