Shift in Union Support: Teamsters Back Republican Candidates
The International Brotherhood of Teamsters, a union historically aligned with Democratic politicians, is now turning its backing toward Republican candidates as the midterm elections near. This notable shift comes after the union, which represents approximately 1.3 million members, chose not to endorse a Democratic presidential candidate last year for the first time in nearly 30 years.
Reasons Behind the Change
Teamsters President Sean O’Brien cited dissatisfaction with Vice President Kamala Harris’s lack of engagement with union members during a recent roundtable, as a key factor. O’Brien recounted an incident where Harris allegedly made an arrogant remark about winning "with you or without you," which contributed to the union’s decision not to endorse any presidential contender in the previous election.
O’Brien, openly critical of the Democratic Party’s neglect of working-class Americans, even addressed the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee last year. Meanwhile, spokesperson Kara Deniz emphasized that union members’ interests transcend party lines and highlighted the importance o...