Trump And Kamala Still Missing Major Endorsement
The Teamsters, a prominent union representing 1.3 million truckers and UPS drivers, has yet to make an endorsement in the upcoming presidential election. Teamsters President Sean O’Brien revealed this in a recent CBS interview, explaining that the decision hinges on a forthcoming meeting with Vice President Kamala Harris. According to O’Brien, the union’s membership is equally divided between Republicans and Democrats, necessitating an impartial approach to their endorsement.
O’Brien, who generated headlines by speaking at the Republican National Convention in July, has yet to receive an invitation to address the Democratic National Convention, despite his request. This has led to some tension between the union and the Democratic Party. O’Brien indicated that his goal is to sit down with Harris to discuss issues pertinent to the Teamsters and broader labor concerns. “We need to have a conversation with Vice President Harris,” O’Brien stated. “It’s like hiring someone—you need to conduct an interview before making a decision.”
While an AP report from August 17 mentioned a scheduled meeting, O’Brien claims it has yet to happen. There appears to be residual frustration on both sides: O’Brien feels snubbed by the Democrats for their lack of response, while Harris may harbor reservations due to O’Brien’s Republican affiliations.
Historically, the Teamsters have leaned towards Republicans, endorsing figures such as Richard Nixon, Ronald Reagan, and George W. Bush. More recently, the union supported Hillary Clinton and Joe Biden, though O’Brien describes the Teamsters as “very, very Democratic” in nature. Nevertheless, he has expressed strong criticism of Donald Trump, particularly regarding comments Trump made about striking workers, which O’Brien has denounced as “economic terrorism.”
O’Brien’s experience with the DNC contrasts sharply with his interactions with the GOP, which he found more responsive and accommodating. “The Republicans were quick to engage with me and didn’t try to change my speech,” he noted. In contrast, his rank-and-file members, many of whom are lifelong Democrats, are discontented with the lack of engagement from the Democrats.
Republicans, traditionally seen as favoring big business, have recently shown more interest in labor issues. For instance, Trump’s running mate, Senator J.D. Vance of Ohio, participated in a picket line last year and has taken a critical stance on corporate power, signaling a shift towards a more labor-friendly approach within the Republican Party.
