U.S. President Joe Biden held discussions with the leadership of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, a union representing 1.3 million members, at their headquarters in Washington. The meeting came six weeks after former President Donald Trump sought the union’s endorsement.
Teamsters President Sean O’Brien expressed that members had the chance to engage with Biden on various topics, including bankruptcy reform and legislation facilitating unionization.
The union plans to conduct extensive polling in the coming weeks and make a decision on endorsement post the Republican and Democratic conventions in July and August.
O’Brien highlighted Biden’s consistent support for unions and emphasized his record, including signing legislation safeguarding union pensions and participating in picket lines. Biden, in turn, reiterated his pro-union stance and discussed his longstanding relationship with labor unions.
The discussion occurred against the backdrop of the 2024 presidential campaign, where economic issues loom large. Unions, experiencing a resurgence, particularly in securing new contracts, are pivotal in battleground states like Michigan, Wisconsin, and Pennsylvania.
Former President Trump also courted union support, stressing his history with labor unions and emphasizing positive interactions. Biden, however, positions himself as the most pro-union president, securing the Teamsters’ endorsement in the 2020 election.
Regarding recent political donations, O’Brien defended the Teamsters’ contribution to the Republican National Committee, citing the importance of having representation across the political spectrum. He noted the union’s substantial support for the Democratic Party over the years, alongside modest contributions to Republicans.
