There is a great detective tool called “follow the money.” So as I see the municipal workers and the teachers and the National Education Association getting popped in just about every state, allow me to present you some figures that may help you understand the crisis.

An organization called the Center for Responsive Politics in Washington has traced the political activity of various unions. With the Democrats taking a pretty thorough whipping last November, it is no wonder what is now springing forth. Apparently, someone bet on the wrong horse.

Allow me to present some 1990-2010 figures for your perusal:

The American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Union contributed $40,281,900 to the Democrats and $547,700 to the Republicans.

The National Education Association contributed $27,679,300 to the Democrats and $2,005,200 to the Republicans.

The American Federation of Teachers contributed $25,682,800 to the Democrats and $200,000 to the Republicans.

The International Brotherhood of Electric Workers contributed $29,705,600 to the Democrats and $679,000 to the Republicans.

The Service Employees International Union contributed $26,368,470 to the Democrats and $98,7000 to the Republicans.

The International Association of Firefighters contributed $12,421,700 to the Democrats and $2,685,400 to the Republicans.

The American Postal Workers Union contributed $11,633,100 to the Democrats and $544,300 to the Republicans.

The National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association contributed $8,135,400 to the Democrats and $2,294,600 to the Republicans.

Maybe that helps you understand the ratta-tat-tat that now flowers with the spring.