The International Brotherhood of Teamsters’ General Executive Board announced on Wednesday that it will not endorse any candidate for the upcoming U.S. Presidential election. This decision followed a comprehensive six-month survey of union members and numerous roundtable interviews with key presidential candidates, revealing a lack of substantial commitments on essential issues for Teamsters from either former President Donald Trump or Vice President Kamala Harris.
Recent polling data indicated that while President Joe Biden had gained some support from Teamsters during local straw polls conducted from April to July, independent polling carried out from July to September showed a preference among voting members for Trump over Harris regarding potential endorsements.
Teamster leadership communicated their gratitude to all candidates for participating in face-to-face discussions with union members but expressed disappointment that neither Trump nor Harris provided solid commitments to prioritize labor interests over corporate interests. The union had sought assurances from both candidates against interference in critical union matters and to uphold the members’ right to strike, but these pledges were not forthcoming.
General President Sean M. O’Brien emphasized the union’s commitment to transparency and inclusivity while reminding members of their diverse political affiliations. He urged participation in the upcoming election although none of the candidates had secured the union’s endorsement.
During discussions, members from the railroad and airline sectors, governed by the Railway Labor Act, expressed concerns about government intervention that hinders their ability to negotiate effectively. Currently, negotiations are ongoing for thousands of Teamsters at United Airlines, while many railroad Teamsters were compelled to accept a congressional contract in 2022 without membership approval. Neither candidate offered assurances against similar governmental interference in future negotiations.
Harris did state her intention to sign the PRO Act, aimed at enhancing union protections, and criticized harmful “right to work” laws that threaten labor unions. Conversely, Trump did not commit to vetoing such legislation if he were to return to office, prompting union officials to highlight the importance of opposing these laws.
The International Brotherhood of Teamsters, established in 1903, represents 1.3 million workers across the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. For further details, visit Teamster.org and follow the union on social media platforms.