Teamsters Poll Shows Trump Ahead of Kamala Harris as Union Maintains Official Neutrality

A recent poll shows that Donald Trump is significantly ahead of Kamala Harris among the members of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters. The union has traditionally been associated with the Democratic Party, but Trump’s message appears to be resonating well within its ranks. The survey released on September 23 indicates that Trump has the support of nearly 60% of the union, while Harris lags behind at 34%. The union’s leadership has chosen to maintain neutrality in the 2024 presidential race, underscoring potential internal divisions within the organization.

The Teamsters’ decision to remain neutral marks a departure from past elections where they largely endorsed Democratic candidates. The current leadership, led by General President Sean O’Brien, has opted for silence, noting that the union’s official stance will depend on further consultations with its members. Many members seem to favor Trump’s economic populist message, particularly resonant among blue-collar workers in crucial swing states. This shift in polling is significant against the backdrop of weakening labor support for Democrats across the nation.

BREAKING: In-person voting is officially underway in Virginia, and it looks like Trump-supporting patriots have flooded the polls. Meanwhile, there’s ZERO Democrat enthusiasm

If Trump wins Virginia, He wins everything

A new poll shows that the race is a statistical tie. If… pic.twitter.com/3HCK5DSWwU

— George (@BehizyTweets) September 20, 2024

The union’s neutrality reflects broader concerns about the current administration’s economic policies. Harris, now at the forefront due to Biden’s decision not to seek re-election, has struggled to connect with working-class voters, especially in the Midwest. Teamsters members express apprehensions about her ability to tackle critical issues like inflation, trade, and manufacturing job losses. These concerns echo Trump’s 2016 campaign, where his populist rhetoric struck a chord with workers feeling left behind by global economic shifts.

Trump’s popularity among Teamsters is not limited to this poll alone. His influence is particularly strong in states like Michigan, Wisconsin, and Pennsylvania, where labor unions historically play pivotal roles in elections. These states, with significant union populations, could sway the outcome of the 2024 election. Trump’s “America First” message resonates with union workers who feel Democratic policies on energy and trade have negatively impacted American industries.

CNN Senior Data Reporter shows a map of what the electoral college would look like if the polls were off to the same degree they were in 2020

The result: 312 electoral votes for Donald Trump. pic.twitter.com/oVBLfpfqc1

— johnny maga (@_johnnymaga) September 20, 2024

On the other hand, Harris has struggled to garner union support despite efforts to engage with labor leaders and working-class voters. Her campaign emphasizes building relationships with union officials but has failed to gain widespread support among members themselves. Many workers remain skeptical of the administration’s policies, particularly on energy transition and climate change, fearing further job losses in manufacturing and energy sectors.

Trump’s lead among union members reflects a broader disenchantment within the labor movement. Workers, especially in industrial sectors, express dissatisfaction with Democratic leadership, feeling their economic concerns are overlooked. Trump’s promises to revitalize American manufacturing and revise trade agreements resonates with these voters. His ability to address working-class issues has consistently boosted his political standing, evident in 2016 and 2020, and now as he campaigns for 2024.

The Teamsters’ neutrality could impact both campaigns significantly. With Trump already enjoying substantial union support, the lack of a formal endorsement from the union may hinder Harris’s outreach to working-class voters. Traditionally, the labor vote is vital for Democrats, particularly in Midwestern states where union participation is crucial. Without the backing of influential unions like the Teamsters, Harris faces challenges in states where the blue-collar vote is pivotal for a Democratic win.

As the competition intensifies, both Trump and Harris vie for the labor vote. Harris targets strong support from urban and suburban voters to counterbalance the lukewarm response from union members. Meanwhile, Trump focuses on winning over blue-collar workers by showcasing his commitment to American jobs and economic stability. The battle for the labor vote could sway the 2024 election, especially in states where unions wield significant influence.