Milwaukee Teamsters Back Harris Despite National Union’s Neutrality

MILWAUKEE, Wis (Civic Media) — The Milwaukee-based Teamsters Joint Council 39 endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris for president Wednesday, breaking with the national union’s decision not to back a candidate in the 2024 race.

The endorsement comes after the International Brotherhood of Teamsters released survey results showing members supported former President Donald Trump over Harris. A national poll conducted by the union found 58% of members favored Trump, compared to 31% for Harris. Earlier straw polls showed members backing Joe Biden over Trump before the president dropped out of the race.

Despite the national stance, several local Teamsters councils have endorsed Harris, including those representing workers in Michigan, western Pennsylvania, Nevada, California, and Hawaii. 

Bill Carroll, president of Joint Council 39, called Harris the vice president “of the most pro-union administration ever” while criticizing Trump’s labor record.

The Wisconsin council represents about 15,000 workers across three local affiliates.