Teamsters president responds to AOC's criticism over lack of Harris endorsement

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Teamsters President Sean O’Brien responded to Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) after she criticized the union for not endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris. O’Brien emphasized that the Teamsters listen to their members' preferences, noting a divide within the union between Democrats and Republicans.

Ocasio-Cortez suggested that the Teamsters often seek the Democratic Party’s help during labor negotiations, but O’Brien countered that President Joe Biden and former Labor Secretary had initiated negotiations to prevent rail strikes. He urged Ocasio-Cortez to focus on her district, which he said leaned Republican, and suggested she address local concerns.

Ocasio-Cortez posted a letter from the Teamsters Local Union 202 in her district, showing their endorsement of Harris. However, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters announced it would not endorse any presidential candidate, as neither Harris nor former President Donald Trump met their criteria. Polling among Teamster members showed Trump leading Harris by over 15%, while Biden had previously polled better against Trump.