Labor unions have historically played a pivotal role during presidential elections, influencing voter behavior and shaping political landscapes. This year, the 2024 presidential race is no exception. With key endorsements hanging in the balance, both Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump are vying for the support of the labor community. Harris is facing challenges as she attempts to solidify her support among these voters, who have traditionally leaned Democratic.
Just recently, Arizona's Teamsters union endorsed Harris and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz after the national Teamsters leadership chose not to endorse anyone this election season. This notable decision marks a significant shift for the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, which has historically backed Democratic candidates since it endorsed George H.W. Bush back in 1988. Teamsters Local 104, representing around 9,600 members, cited labor-related issues as the focal point for their supporting Harris and Walz.
On the national front, the Teamsters union's unusual neutrality was seen as favorable by Trump, who interpreted it as evidence of labor dissatisfaction under Democratic leadership. The former president remarked, "It’s a great honor... They’re not going to endorse the Democrats. That’s a big thing." This sentiment highlights the delicate balance both candidates must navigate to secure labor endorsements and those valuable working-class votes.
While some local unions, such as Teamsters locals across battleground states like Michigan and Pennsylvania, have thrown their weight behind Harris, others, including the International Association of Fire Fighters, have opted for non-endorsement. This indecision among unions, which previously endorsed Biden during the last election, showcases shifting loyalty within the labor community.
During her campaign rally on October 3, 2024, in Flint, Michigan, Harris's visit came just after dockworkers across the U.S. suspended their strike. The strike had the potential to cause significant disruption across the supply chain, but with tentative agreements reached, dockworkers felt optimistic about future contracts. Harris lauded this compromise, emphasizing the importance of collective bargaining, stating, "Dockworkers deserve a fair share for their hard work getting essentials out to communities across America." This contradiction of labor dynamics showcases the challenges Harris faces as she endeavors to strengthen ties with blue-collar voters.
For Trump, courting union voters is part of his strategy to bolster support among traditionally Democratic demographics. He pointed out his administration's successes concerning workers during a rally, boasting, "under my leadership Americans won’t have to go on strike for a Better wage or a Better life." Trump's appeal among white voters without college degrees has contributed to his efforts to attract labor votes, especially after he captured 62% of their support during the last election.
The tension between labor unions and political identities has intensified with unions experiencing divided allegiances. Data has shown Democrats increasingly gaining ground with white-collar professionals, contrasting with Republican efforts targeting working-class voters who may not have attended college. Both sides have raised concerns over how candidates are meeting worker's needs.
Despite the hurdles Harris confronts, she received endorsements from sizable labor organizations, including the American Federation of Teachers, the AFL-CIO, and the United Auto Workers, illustrating some consolidation of labor backing. Nevertheless, the scattered allegiances within unions thwart her efforts to cultivate stronger support.
Union members like Lisa Anderson, who drove over an hour to support Harris during her rally, remain confident. Anderson, representing the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), said, "If you’re voting for Trump, how can you believe in unions?" Statements like Anderson's reflect the bridges Harris can build if she can convince voters of her commitment to union rights.
With the end of the dockworkers' strike and ambivalent union endorsements, the political battlefield between Harris and Trump sharpens. Harris's moves to engage working-class voters will be more consequential than ever, considering the shifting dynamics among labor allegiances.
Public opinion polls indicate union members' attitudes toward candidates can significantly affect election outcomes. Labor unrest and contracts are likely to remain at the forefront throughout the upcoming months, and how Harris and Trump navigate these complex issues will likely influence who has the upper hand as November approaches. The road toward election day will undoubtedly continue to test candidates' resolve to sidestep worker concerns, with both parties strategizing to connect with the distresses and aspirations of the labor population.
