The Union’s Growing Frustration Could Harm Biden’s Bid, With Potential Shift Away from 2020 Support
U.S. President Joe Biden is facing a major challenge in securing the endorsement of the 1.3 million-member Teamsters union, which is now considering withholding support for his re-election campaign. The decision, which could be finalized in the coming weeks, would mark a significant blow to Biden, as the Teamsters had endorsed him in 2020. The possibility of no endorsement at all would deal another setback to Biden’s bid for a second term, especially given the union’s historic support for Democratic candidates.
Internal Divisions and Frustrations with Biden
Internal divisions within the Teamsters have led to uncertainty about its presidential endorsement. While a full endorsement of Republican candidate Donald Trump seems unlikely, the growing discontent within the union could see it refrain from supporting any candidate. This would be the first time since 1996 that the Teamsters would not endorse a candidate. Biden’s team had initially seen the Teamsters’ backing as nearly guaranteed, but recent tensions, particularly over issues like the bankruptcy of Yellow Corp and its impact on union jobs, have strained relations.
Frustrations with Biden’s Handling of Key Issues
Teamsters president Sean O’Brien’s frustration with Biden’s handling of union-related matters, such as the Yellow Corp issue, has escalated. O’Brien’s request for a meeting with Biden to discuss the situation was reportedly denied, deepening the union’s dissatisfaction. Biden’s failure to engage on this key issue, along with other concerns about his political stamina and ability to win a second term, has contributed to the union’s growing disillusionment.
Potential Fallout for Biden’s Campaign
The Teamsters’ potential refusal to endorse Biden would have serious implications for his re-election campaign, particularly in key battleground states like Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Nevada, where working-class voters played a pivotal role in his 2020 victory. Union groups are a critical source of support for Democratic candidates, providing both financial contributions and volunteer labor. A lack of endorsement could further energize union members who are already divided over Biden’s policies.
Teamsters and the Political Landscape
Although the Teamsters have historically supported Democratic candidates like Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama, the union has occasionally backed Republicans in past elections. O’Brien’s praise for Trump and other Republican figures, such as Senator Josh Hawley, has added to tensions within the union. While Biden’s team has made efforts to highlight his pro-union record, the rank-and-file members appear increasingly divided on their support for the Democratic ticket.
Despite the uncertainty, Biden’s campaign continues to maintain that he is a champion for working-class Americans, contrasting his policies with Trump’s alleged focus on wealthy donors. However, with the Teamsters union’s endorsement still up in the air, Biden’s campaign faces growing challenges in securing the crucial labor vote ahead of the November election.
