This article discusses the recent developments surrounding the Teamsters union’s involvement in the 2024 presidential election.
Despite the national leadership of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters IBOT opting not to endorse any candidate for the first time in recent history, local Teamsters units and joint councils have independently endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz.
Almost two dozen local Teamsters unions, representing around 1 million workers, have thrown their support behind Harris, particularly in battleground states like Michigan, Nevada, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin.
This support contrasts with the national IBOT’s decision, which cited the lack of serious commitments from both major party candidates to protect the interests of working people over corporate interests.
Teamsters General President Sean O’Brien emphasized that neither candidate was able to make the necessary commitments, leading to the union’s decision to remain neutral.
However, the local endorsements reflect strong grassroots support for Harris among certain segments of Teamster-affiliated workers.
Kevin Moore, president of Michigan Teamsters, noted the unanimous decision by the state’s leadership to endorse Harris and Walz, emphasizing the need for a full endorsement in such a critical election.
Similarly, Bill Carroll of Wisconsin’s Teamsters Joint Council 39 acknowledged that while some members support Trump, the group ultimately endorsed Harris, citing a lack of Republican action benefiting organized labor.
The article also highlights the broader support Harris enjoys from other labor unions, such as the AFL-CIO, Service Employees International Union, and the Culinary Workers Union, all traditionally aligned with the Democratic Party.
This labor backing, despite the Teamsters’ national non-endorsement, reflects a divide within the working-class electorate—a key demographic for determining the outcome of the 2024 election.
Trump, who has been vocal about the IBOT’s non-endorsement, sees it as a win for his campaign, acknowledging the Teamsters’ influence in the political landscape.
James P. Hoffa, president emeritus of the Teamsters, reinforced the importance of the 2024 election, stating that Harris has been a consistent advocate for working families and unions throughout her career.
However, internal polling shows that while Harris enjoys support among some union groups, Trump remains popular among a significant portion of Teamster members, highlighting the complexities of labor politics in this election.