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O’Brien emphasized that the union’s endorsement process considers the political diversity of its members. “We don’t just represent registered Democrats, we represent registered Republicans and independents, so we have to take [that] into consideration,” he added. The Teamsters Union, formally known as the International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT), has evolved dramatically since its founding in 1903. Initially formed to represent horse team drivers and warehouse workers, the union now includes members from industries such as freight, healthcare, and public services. With over 1.4 million members, the IBT remains a powerful force in labor negotiations and political advocacy.
The union’s ability to sway political elections cannot be underestimated. The Teamsters have long advocated for better wages, working conditions, and benefits for their members. As one of the country’s largest unions, their influence stretches across labor rights and politics, often endorsing candidates who defend workers’ interests. This year, the potential for the Teamsters to endorse Trump, who garnered a substantial lead in their internal polling, could dramatically alter the typical electoral landscape.
In January, the Teamsters engaged in discussions with former President Trump, and in March, they held talks with President Joe Biden. O’Brien noted that there wasn’t much difference between his discussions with Biden and those with Vice President Kamala Harris. “There wasn’t a whole lot of difference,” O’Brien said when asked about the discussions with Biden and Harris.
However, what stands out in this election cycle is the growing support for Trump within the union. The Teamsters’ polling shows the former president with a significant lead over Harris among union members, which could suggest a shift in the union’s typical endorsement practices. According to the union’s electronic polling, nearly 60 percent of members favored Trump, while just 34 percent expressed support for Harris. A phone survey showed similarly striking results, with Trump securing 58 percent of support and Harris trailing with 31 percent.
Such results are particularly surprising given the union’s historical backing of Democratic candidates. In 2020, the Teamsters endorsed Biden, and in 2016, they backed Hillary Clinton during the general election. Despite this, many rank-and-file members have shown increasing support for Trump, largely due to his populist economic rhetoric and promises to revitalize American manufacturing.
An endorsement for Trump would be a significant shift for the Teamsters, signaling a potential realignment of labor unions in the broader U.S. political landscape. While O’Brien has not confirmed whether the union will officially endorse Trump, the polling results clearly show where the majority of members stand. During his speech at the Republican National Convention, O’Brien referred to Trump as “one tough SOB,” a comment that was met with applause from the crowd.
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The Teamsters’ endorsement could be crucial in battleground states, where union influence is strong. With nearly 1.4 million members, a formal endorsement of Trump could bolster his chances in key states with large working-class populations. While the union’s leadership typically deliberates before making an official endorsement, the numbers presented in this polling data indicate that Trump has strong support from within.
The International Brotherhood of Teamsters’ decision on whom to endorse could come down to more than just party loyalty. O’Brien and the union’s executive board face a critical decision that could influence not just the upcoming election, but also the future of union politics in the U.S. For now, all eyes are on the Teamsters as they weigh their options in this highly charged political climate.
