In a surprising move, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters has decided not to endorse a candidate in the 2024 presidential race. This marks a significant departure from their usual practice and the first time since 1996 that they have not backed a presidential candidate.
The union’s General President, Sean O’Brien, expressed disappointment that neither major candidate, Trump nor Harris, had made satisfactory commitments to safeguard the interests of working people and unions. Key concerns for the Teamsters included protecting union campaigns, respecting workers’ right to strike, and prioritizing labor interests over those of big businesses.
This decision comes after a long period of deliberation, with the Teamsters notably delaying their endorsement compared to other major unions like the United Auto Workers and the AFL-CIO, which had already endorsed Biden and Harris.
Historically, the Teamsters have endorsed candidates from both major parties, and O’Brien’s outreach to Republicans had fueled speculation that they might break with their recent trend of supporting Democratic nominees. However, internal polling revealed strong support for Trump among Teamsters members, further complicating the endorsement process.
Ultimately, the Teamsters’ decision to withhold an endorsement highlights the challenges both parties face in securing the support of labor unions and underscores the complex political landscape of the 2024 election. While the union has not officially backed any candidate, they are strongly encouraging their members to vote and remain engaged in the political process.
