This is going to have a significant impact on the election.
In a recent podcast interview, Sean O’Brien, president of the Teamsters, expressed frustration with the Democratic Party, claiming they have consistently let working Americans down for the past four decades. This candid assessment comes at a time when many union members are shifting their support toward Republican candidates, notably Donald Trump, in the upcoming election on November 5.
O’Brien, who identified himself as a Democrat, didn’t hold back in his criticism during a conversation with comedian Theo Von. He pointed out that the union, typically aligned with Democratic interests, is starting to question that loyalty. “What have you done for us?” he asked, highlighting a growing sentiment among union members who feel overlooked by their traditional party. His comments resonate with a significant portion of the workforce that has become disillusioned with a party they once trusted to champion their rights.
Interestingly, despite a history of financial support for Democrats—$15.7 million in contributions during his tenure compared to just $340,000 for Republicans—O’Brien pointed out a startling trend. A recent poll showed that nearly 60% of Teamsters members favored Trump over Vice President Kamala Harris, indicating a significant realignment among blue-collar voters. “If 60% of our members don’t support you, the system’s broken,” he stated, urging leaders to reflect on their disconnect with working-class Americans.
The shift isn’t just a reaction to party policies; it highlights a deeper frustration with how both parties have interacted with unions. O’Brien emphasized that Republicans now have a unique opportunity to reach out to the working class, who feel abandoned by the Democrats. He suggested that Republicans could position themselves as true advocates for labor, contrasting sharply with the Democratic establishment that has, in his view, become too cozy with corporate interests, particularly in the tech sector.
O’Brien’s confrontational style hasn’t just earned him enemies among Democrats; he has also found himself at odds with some Republican figures, including a near altercation with Senator Markwayne Mullin. This combative approach underscores his commitment to fighting for workers’ rights, even if it means challenging those in power, regardless of party affiliation.
The Teamsters’ decision not to endorse any candidate this election cycle is a reflection of their frustration, particularly after California Governor Gavin Newsom’s recent veto of a bill aimed at regulating autonomous trucking—an issue O’Brien claims is influenced by Big Tech interests. He stated, “These politicians say they are for the working people, but they’re being bought and sold by corporations.”
As the election approaches, O’Brien is clear about his priorities. He supports Trump’s proposal to eliminate income taxes on overtime pay, stating he would hold the former president accountable if he wins. “We’re ready to go. Whoever wins, they’ve got to deal with us,” O’Brien asserted. With a powerful union backing him, O’Brien is poised to challenge the status quo and demand accountability from elected officials, making it clear that working-class interests should be front and center in the national conversation.
