Staff Reports
While the Democratic Party is traditionally seen as the union’s best friend, Sean O’Brien, the president of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, took to a podcast recently to air some grievances that could easily be mistaken for a psychic’s prediction of the party’s future. O’Brien declared that the Democrats have been screwing over union members for the better part of 40 years and that even as a Democrat himself, he’s fed up with being taken for granted. The union’s current landscape shows a shift as rank-and-file members, primarily truckers and UPS drivers, are leaning towards former President Donald Trump with a surprising 58% in favor, while only 31% are clinging to Vice President Kamala Harris.
In a world where labor unions typically wave the Democratic flag, O’Brien’s statements come as a rude awakening for party loyalists. He made it clear that the Teamsters recently opted out of endorsing anyone this election cycle. The team’s decision highlights a growing discontent with the political class—an increasingly common sentiment among many union members who feel the Democrats have left them high and dry. O’Brien’s frustration might be the tipping point that prompts more working-class voters to question their long-held alliances.
Teamsters President Sean O'Brien EVISCERATES the Dem Party..
“'ll be honest with you, I'm a Democrat but they have f*cked us over for the last 40 years.”
“Since I've been in office 2.5 years, we've given the Democratic machine $15.7 million.” pic.twitter.com/BwcUxU6mvq
— Nino America (@Nino_Merica) October 8, 2024
Previously, the Teamsters were known for riding the Democratic wave, providing an astonishing $15.7 million to the party compared to a paltry $340,000 to Republicans. Despite their historical support, O’Brien’s concerns about the Democrats being in bed with Big Tech resonate with a growing number of union members. The idea that the party of working people has become an arm of corporate interests isn’t just a talking point—it’s a painful revelation for many who find themselves wondering where their union dues are going.
As for the union landscape, this election cycle is riddled with indecision. Other unions are also dragging their feet on endorsements, primarily due to sticking points over policy issues. President Biden’s claim of being the “most pro-union president in history” has fallen flat for union workers who are wary of his administration’s push for electric vehicle transitions that could jeopardize traditional auto jobs. Workers worry that while Biden hugs picket lines, he might be stepping on their toes when it comes to actual job security.
Trump, on the other hand, is making a rousing appeal to the working class, countering the backlash by proposing a plan for tax incentives aimed at boosting jobs. At the same time, Harris shelves “pro-labor” legislation viewed more as a red tape by conservatives. Recently, Harris managed to sidestep a potential disaster by negotiating a delay for the U.S. port strike. This move has won some favorable reviews but raises eyebrows about whether she’s genuinely in it for the working people or just for the votes as the election approaches.
The looming election presents a wildcard scenario for the fate of the union vote. With a sizable portion leaning toward Trump and established unions still finding their footing, it’s clear that the old model of unwavering party loyalty is cracking. The Teamsters may just be leading the charge for a new kind of political awareness among union members, showcasing that trust is a two-way street more than it is a populist chant for votes. If the Democrats don’t wake up soon, they might find out just how many working-class voters are willing to ditch them for Trump come 2024.
