Citing a need for a candidate who aligns with the values and interests of their members, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT) has decided not to endorse any candidate in the upcoming 2023 U.S. presidential election. The decision was made after a thorough evaluation of the candidates and their platforms by the union's General Executive Board.
The International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT), representing over 1.4 million active and retired workers in the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico, has announced that it will not endorse any candidate in the 2023 U.S. presidential election. This decision, made by the union's General Executive Board at its regular meeting on Wednesday, marks a significant departure from the IBT's past practice of endorsing candidates in previous presidential races.
Teamsters Withhold Endorsement in 2023 U.S. Presidential Race
In a statement released after the meeting, IBT General President Sean O'Brien explained the rationale behind the decision: "After careful consideration, the General Executive Board has determined that none of the candidates currently running for President fully aligns with the values and interests of our members. We believe that our members deserve a candidate who will fight for their jobs, their families, and their future."
The IBT's decision comes amid growing economic uncertainty and political polarization in the United States. The union has expressed concerns about the impact of inflation, rising healthcare costs, and stagnant wages on its members. Additionally, the IBT has been vocal in its opposition to policies that it believes erode workers' rights and undermine collective bargaining.
The union's General Executive Board evaluated the candidates' positions on a range of issues important to its members, including healthcare, job security, retirement security, infrastructure, and trade. The board ultimately concluded that none of the candidates met the standards set by the union.
"We understand that our members may have different political views," said O'Brien. "However, we believe that it is our responsibility as a union to ensure that our members have a voice in the political process and that their interests are represented in the highest office in the land."
The IBT's decision not to endorse a candidate in the 2023 presidential election reflects the union's commitment to its members and its belief that no candidate currently running fully embodies the values and priorities of the working class. The union will continue to engage with the candidates and advocate for políticas that benefit its members and all working Americans.
In the meantime, the IBT urges its members to educate themselves about the candidates and their platforms and to vote in the upcoming election. The union believes that an informed electorate is essential for a strong democracy and a just society.
