In a surprising move, the Teamsters, one of the largest unions in the world, has decided not to endorse a candidate for president in the upcoming election. This marks the first time in decades that the union has withheld its endorsement.

In a statement, Teamsters General President Sean O'Brien cited the lack of serious commitments from both major candidates to prioritize the interests of working people over big business. The union had sought assurances from former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris regarding union campaigns and the right to strike but was unable to secure those pledges.

The decision comes after senior leaders met with Harris to consider the endorsement. Similar meetings were held with Trump and President Joe Biden during his bid for re-election. Input on the endorsement was collected through straw polling and electronic member polls, which revealed that nearly 60% of rank-and-file union members preferred endorsing Trump, while 34% backed Harris.

The Teamsters' long-standing tradition has been to endorse Democratic presidential candidates. They supported Hillary Clinton in 2016 and Joe Biden in 2020, as well as Barack Obama, John Kerry, and Al Gore in previous elections. However, this year's decision reflects a break from that pattern.

The Trump campaign promptly highlighted the Teamsters' polling results, stating that Teamster members want President Trump back in the White House. Trump himself addressed the decision, expressing honor and surprise at the Teamsters' choice not to endorse a candidate. He acknowledged the weight the union carries in American politics and emphasized how Democrats have historically received their endorsement.

The Harris campaign responded by pointing out that numerous local Teamsters chapters have already endorsed the vice president. They highlighted Harris's strong union record and her commitment to fighting for the rank-and-file members.

President Biden, known for his support of organized labor, has also weighed in on disputes between union workers and corporate leaders throughout his presidency. He has championed the right to unionize and even joined a picket line during a visit in Michigan. However, labor unions have criticized him in the past for his involvement in brokering a union contract that some workers had initially rejected.

The Teamsters' decision not to endorse a candidate adds to the list of unions that have yet to announce their endorsements. Notably, the International Association of Fire Fighters, which endorsed Biden in 2020, has not made a decision. In contrast, the AFL-CIO and the United Auto Workers union have both thrown their support behind Harris.

As the election draws closer, it remains to be seen how the absence of the Teamsters' endorsement will impact the presidential race. The union's decision underscores the tension between the interests of working people and the influence of big business, leaving candidates to compete for the support of this influential group.