Teamsters Announcement for US Election: There is a new twist in the US presidential election to be held on November 5. America’s second largest labor union Teamsters has raised the flag of rebellion and refused to support any candidate. Teamsters said that it will neither support Democratic Party candidate Kamala Harris nor Republican Party candidate Donald Trump. This announcement of Teamsters is being seen as a big setback for Kamala Harris, who is contesting on behalf of the Democratic Party.
This announcement of Teamsters in the US Presidential elections becomes important because it has about 13 lakh members. This organization, known as International Brotherhood of Teamsters, was founded in 1903. Initially, this organization represented only American truck drivers, but with the passage of time, it made its mark in many unorganized sectors as well. According to the data of Teamsters, it represents about 10 percent of American unions including agriculture, law enforcement, health service and aviation. Teamsters also protest to fulfill the demands of employees in many sectors.
Why did the Teamsters take this decision?
Sean O’Brien, president of the labor union Teamsters, said in a statement that this decision was taken after no majority was seen among its members in favor of Democrat Harris or Republican Trump. He also said that both the candidates have not shown a serious commitment to the labor union.
How much impact will this announcement have?
This announcement of the Teamsters can have a great impact on the US presidential election. Although this decision is being considered a setback for Kamala Harris, but according to reports, local bodies of many states have taken out rallies in support of the Democratic Party candidate and have also announced their support. Local bodies have held rallies in support of Kamala Harris in states like Nevada, Wisconsin, Michigan and Pennsylvania. These are the states that can play an important role in deciding victory or defeat in the presidential election.
Who have the Teamsters supported so far?
The Teamsters have endorsed every Democratic candidate for the White House since Al Gore in 2000. The organization previously backed Republicans Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush. It supported Bill Clinton in 1992 and abstained from voting in 1996.