I don't belong to ALPA because I think we have more political pull than the various industry groups. In fact, I shudder to think of the difference between what the ALPA-PAC spends versus what mgt spends. As to FDX, I'd venture a guess that Fred lobbying in the seats at FedEx Field is more effective than the donations FDX pilots give to the PAC.
I belong to ALPA for access to the medical department, for another set of eyes tracking my pension. AND, most importantly, for legal defense. IF the company fires me because I elected to wear a Christmas tie outside of the "permitted" periods, then I know I don't have to pony up the bucks for representation fighting to get my job back.
ALPA is not EF Hutton. ALPA-PAC does have a seat at the table a bit closer than IPA...but, just because something makes sense or is logical doesn't mean Congress is going to listen to it. In fact, sometimes I get the impression that being logical hinders rather than helps when dealing with the Govt.