Trump is the only candidate offering support to this group and they still side with Kamala? Insane.
The hospitality workers’ union UNITE HERE has thrown its support behind Vice President Kamala Harris for the upcoming presidential race, presenting a clear challenge to former President Donald Trump’s recent appeal to restaurant and hotel staff. Trump had proposed a plan to make tips exempt from federal income taxes during a rally in Nevada on June 9, aiming to win over these workers by promising financial relief.
Gwen Mills, president of UNITE HERE, dismissed Trump’s proposal as a mere political maneuver. She emphasized that Harris has demonstrated genuine support for labor unions, which gives her credibility among workers. Mills shared her perspective with The Associated Press prior to the union’s formal endorsement.
As part of their endorsement, UNITE HERE has committed to mobilizing its members to canvass more than 3.3 million doors in crucial swing states such as Pennsylvania, Michigan, Nevada, Arizona, and North Carolina. This effort is designed to significantly boost Harris’s support in these battleground regions.
Trump’s promise to make tips tax-free was notably supported by Nevada’s Democratic Senators, Jacky Rosen and Catherine Cortez Masto, reflecting its appeal across party lines. During his Nevada rally, Trump assured tip-earning workers that they would benefit from tax relief on their earnings under his administration.
In contrast, the Biden administration, with Biden recently stepping down from the presidential race, argues that raising the minimum wage would be more beneficial for tipped workers. Harris, who has taken over Biden’s role, continues to champion similar economic proposals and has pushed for reforms to facilitate easier unionization.
Harris’s swift consolidation of support from key Democratic factions, including UNITE HERE and the AFL-CIO, highlights her growing influence. The United Auto Workers also formally endorsed Harris, reflecting her strong backing within the labor community.
Rashad Eaton, a UNITE HERE member and Philadelphia resident, has canvassed for Democratic candidates before and will now support Harris. Eaton, who works for the food vendor Aramark at major sports events, cited concerns about issues like gun violence and corporate greed, but he is motivated to work for Harris due to his belief that Trump poses a threat to progress and stability.
