In an unexpected show of support, several local unions affiliated with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters have endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris in her bid for the presidency. Despite the International Brotherhood of Teamsters' decision to withhold a presidential endorsement, local unions in Michigan and Southern California have thrown their weight behind Harris, citing her dedication to the issues that matter most to working families and the labor movement.

The Michigan Teamsters Joint Council No. 43, representing 245,000 active and retired Teamsters, enthusiastically announced their endorsement of the Harris-Walz campaign on Wednesday. Michigan Teamsters President Kevin Moore emphasized the candidates' commitment to championing the labor movement, safeguarding social security, ensuring access to quality healthcare, and supporting women's reproductive rights.

Similarly, Teamsters Joint Council 42, whose jurisdiction covers 23 Teamsters Union Locals in Southern California, Southern Nevada, Guam, Saipan, and Hawaii, also expressed their support for Harris. The council's president, Chris Griswold, acknowledged the critical role of the 300,000 Teamsters working across California, Nevada, Hawaii, and Guam in the American economy. Griswold emphasized the need for a committed administration that prioritizes the rights and safety of working people.

The decision not to endorse a presidential candidate by Teamsters General President Sean O'Brien was based on both Harris and former President Trump's failure to commit on core issues important to the union's members. O'Brien emphasized the need to achieve important objectives on behalf of the Teamsters' members.

Vice President Harris's campaign, delighted with the endorsements from these local unions, highlighted her history of championing labor rights and contrasted it with former President Trump's attitude towards striking workers and his alleged agenda to undermine the right to organize.

Harris's bid for the presidency hinges on capturing key battleground states like Michigan and Nevada. Recent polling averages from The Hill/Decision Desk HQ indicate a narrow lead for Harris in both states, with 48.6 percent to 47.2 percent in Michigan and 47.8 percent to 46.5 percent in Nevada.

The support from local Teamsters unions strengthens Harris's campaign and underscores her commitment to fighting for working families and labor rights. These endorsements serve to highlight the importance of issues such as social security, healthcare access, and women's reproductive rights in the upcoming election.

The Hill reached out to the Teamsters for further comment on the local unions' endorsements.