Teamsters Withhold Presidential Endorsement

Teamsters Withhold Presidential Endorsement

The International Brotherhood of Teamsters (Teamsters), a major labor union in the United States, has made the unprecedented decision not to endorse a presidential candidate in the 2024 election. This marks the first time since 1996 that the union has withheld its support from a presidential candidate. The decision came as a surprise, as Kamala Harris, the Democratic candidate, has been a strong supporter of organized labor.

AOC Criticizes Teamsters Leadership

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC) has expressed dissatisfaction with the Teamsters’ nonendorsement, questioning the leadership of Sean O’Brien, the union’s president. “I’m very disappointed in Sean O’Brien’s leadership,” AOC stated. “When the Teamsters are in trouble, who do they call? Democrats. Sean O’Brien called Democrats for help.”

Union Importance in Election

The debate over the Teamsters’ nonendorsement highlights the significance of unions in the upcoming election, particularly regarding organizing and turnout efforts. Both candidates are actively attempting to secure support from rank-and-file union members.

Teamsters’ Reasons for Nonendorsement

According to Sean O’Brien, the Teamsters refused to endorse Harris or Trump because “we couldn’t get commitments on our issues” from either candidate. O’Brien also claimed that union membership polls in her district showed overwhelming support for Trump. However, Ocasio-Cortez has countered these claims, asserting that Teamsters in her district support Harris and her running mate, Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota.

Former Teamsters President’s Disagreement

Former Teamsters President James P. Hoffa has voiced his disapproval of the union’s nonendorsement, calling it a “critical error.” “There is only one candidate in this race that has supported working families and unions throughout their career,” Hoffa said. “And that is Vice President Kamala Harris.”

Trump’s Victory Lap

Former President Donald Trump has seized upon the Teamsters’ nonendorsement as a victory. “The Teamsters carry a lot of weight,” Trump said. “The Democrats cannot believe it… that was an honor for me.”

Battle for Union Support

The Teamsters’ nonendorsement has sparked a tug-of-war between Trump and Harris for union support. Trump is reaching out to union members with promises of protectionist trade measures, while Harris emphasizes her strong support for labor. The outcome of this battleground will play a significant role in the election, especially in the Upper Midwest, where organized labor holds substantial sway.