The Teamsters union has conducted polling among its members regarding the upcoming 2024 U.S. presidential election, and the results are quite surprising. In a national electronic poll conducted from July 24th to September 15th, Teamsters voted in favor of Republican former President Donald Trump over Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris. The union’s executive board is set to announce their official endorsement later today.
Key points from the polling data include:
– 59.6% of Teamsters members voted to endorse Trump, while only 34% supported Harris.
– A post-presidential debate survey by Lake Research Partners revealed that 58% of Teamsters chose Trump for endorsement, compared to 31% for Harris.
Teamsters President Sean O’Brien emphasized the importance of considering the diverse voices within the union when making their final decision on endorsement. This decision could hold significant sway in battleground states like Michigan, Nevada, and Pennsylvania, where union membership plays a pivotal role in elections.
Historically, the Teamsters have endorsed various candidates from both major parties. While the union backed Joe Biden in the 2020 election, their support for Trump in the upcoming election highlights a shift in sentiment among its members.
It’s worth noting that most major unions have thrown their support behind Harris, including the United Auto Workers union and the AFL-CIO, representing 60 unions and 12.5 million workers. However, the Teamsters’ decision could be a game-changer in the political landscape.
As the executive board considers the polling data and prepares to make their announcement, it remains unclear whether they will choose to make an endorsement at all. O’Brien emphasized the weight of this decision, stating that they must ensure they make the right choice for their members.
In conclusion, the Teamsters union’s backing of Trump over Harris in the upcoming election reflects a broader shift in political preferences among its members, and their endorsement could have a significant impact on the race. The union’s commitment to representing the interests of its diverse membership highlights the importance of considering all viewpoints before making a final decision.