Public sector unions differ from private sector unions primarily in their membership and focus. Public sector unions advocate for employees working in government roles—such as teachers, firefighters, and police officers—while private sector unions represent workers in businesses and industries. The legal and political environments surrounding these unions can vary significantly; public sector unions may face stricter regulations and different collective bargaining rights compared to their private counterparts. Moreover, the public nature of government employment often makes issues of salary, benefits, and job security more visible, impacting public perception and political discourse.