### California Firefighters Union Endorses Kamala Harris, Diverging From National Union Stance

The California Professional Firefighters (CPF) union has officially endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris, a move that marks a significant deviation from the stance of the national firefighters' union. This decision follows the International Association of Fire Fighters' (IAFF) recent announcement to withhold any endorsement in the upcoming presidential race after conducting a memberwide poll. The CPF's endorsement emphasizes the belief that the state's firefighters and residents cannot risk having a president who might threaten to withhold crucial wildfire aid over political differences, a sentiment vocalized by CPF President Brian Rice.

Rice highlighted the dangerous precedent set by former President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly suggested depriving California of federal wildfire relief unless the state aligns with his views on water politics. Trump most recently reiterated this stance at a rally in Southern California. "National state of emergency declarations should be about assisting the public whose lives and homes are endangered by wildfires, floods, and earthquakes, not partisan politics," Rice asserted in a statement.

The CPF leader underscored the election as a critical juncture for "the heart and soul of working America," praising Harris for her commitment to protecting firefighters' rights to unionize and for prioritizing their welfare. "Kamala Harris represents firefighters' best opportunity to elect a leader who is going to support the work they do and to prioritize their well-being and the well-being of their families," Rice affirmed.

In a broader context, the decision by the CPF stands in stark contrast to the IAFF's position. The IAFF conducted a poll which revealed a politically diverse membership: 56% identifying as Republican and 41% wanting the union to consider broader issues beyond its fire service mission, such as gun rights and foreign policy. This marks a notable shift from 2020 when the IAFF was the first to endorse President Joe Biden.

CPF's endorsement not only signifies internal unity but also has potential implications for voter decisions in swing states, especially in Western states closely observing California's firefighting strategies. Firefighters' unions are among the most popular labor groups in the country according to a YouGov poll from August.

Rice acknowledged the diversity of opinions among California firefighters, stating, "We respect that all voters, including our own members, will take other issues into consideration when they vote." He stressed that the CPF's responsibility is to recommend choices that best support firefighters' well-being and enhance public safety services.

Vice President Harris has garnered endorsements from numerous national labor unions. However, some blue-collar unions, including the United Mine Workers of America and the Teamsters, have opted out of endorsing any candidate for the 2024 election. Notably, the West Coast Teamsters also broke from their national leadership to support Harris.

CPF represents 35,000 members, encompassing emergency responders, municipal firefighters, and Cal Fire personnel, although it does not include firefighters from the Forest Service or Bureau of Land Management.