Breakaway union could prompt war of attrition with SEIU

At a time when workers nationwide stand to make big gains under the Obama administration, the newly formed National Union of Healthcare Workers is seeking alliances with rivals of the powerful SEIU. The leaders of the respective unions are preparing for what some say could become a war of attrition for the right to represent tens of thousands of healthcare workers—and perhaps a boon for employers eager to see a sector of organized labor divided.