Alexander Sammon
Updated on: October 12, 2024 4:35 pm GMT
As the presidential election approaches, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters is at a critical juncture. The union is preparing to announce its endorsement for the 2024 election, with Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump vying for support. However, the Teamsters have yet to endorse a candidate, making this decision one of the most anticipated in the current political landscape.
Teamsters’ Endorsement Decision on the Horizon
The Teamsters, one of the largest labor unions in the United States, have been carefully weighing their options as they prepare for a significant endorsement announcement. The union’s General President, Sean O’Brien, recently indicated that the decision could come as early as this week.
“We are going to look at any and all options, and I can’t commit to what we’re going to do,” O’Brien stated following a closed-door meeting with Harris at the Teamsters’ national headquarters in Washington, D.C.
This presidential election marks a pivotal moment for the Teamsters, who have historically played a vital role in supporting Democratic candidates. Yet, O’Brien’s leadership has brought a new dynamic, as he made headlines by addressing the Republican National Convention earlier this year.
The Union’s Unique Polling Approach
To prioritize the interests and preferences of its members, the Teamsters implemented a historic endorsement process for the 2024 election. O’Brien announced this approach late last year, allowing members to actively engage by voicing their opinions on the presidential candidates. The process includes several key components:
- Polling of the union’s membership to gauge support for each candidate
- Roundtable discussions with both major party candidates
- Public release of polling results before the executive board meeting
O’Brien emphasized the importance of incorporating the voices of all members, stating, “There’s no secret that the Teamsters union is very different than most unions. We represent everybody from airline pilots to zookeepers.”
Comparing Candidates: Harris vs. Trump
O’Brien highlighted the similarities and differences between Harris’s and Biden’s responses to questions posed by the Teamsters. He noted that both candidates provided comparable answers, which indicates a level of consistency in the Democratic messaging.
The Teamsters have specifically asked both candidates about their position on various issues, such as:
1. Support for the Protecting the Right to Organize Act (PRO Act)
2. Bankruptcy reform policies
3. Antitrust reform
Biden’s historical commitment to union support, including his participation in picketing activities, has been a significant point in his favor. “Biden has been great for unions,” O’Brien stated.
In contrast, O’Brien critiqued Trump’s comments during an interview with Elon Musk, particularly when Trump praised the business mogul for actions that negatively affected striking workers. “It plays into the decision,” O’Brien stated, alluding to how Trump’s remarks could influence the Teamsters’ final choice.
VP Kamala Harris speaks during a rally at Bojangles Coliseum, Charlotte, NC, on Sept. 12, 2024.
The Role of Rank and File
O’Brien has reiterated the importance of the rank and file in making the final decision. The Teamsters’ executive board will consider the union’s polling results, which are aimed at ensuring that members’ opinions significantly influence the endorsement process.
The upcoming executive board meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, where the final recommendations will be discussed, and the endorsement may be finalized.
Conclusion: A High-Stakes Decision Ahead
As the Teamsters approach their final decision, the stakes could not be higher. Endorsements from significant labor unions traditionally carry weight in presidential elections. Harris and Trump have each made their case, yet the decision rests in the hands of the Teamsters’ members and leadership.
The result of this endorsement could change things not just in the election between Harris and Trump, but also for workers’ rights in the United States. As everyone waits to see what happens, the Teamsters are focused on standing up for all their members and making sure their choice fits with what the union believes in.
