Teamsters President O’Brien Criticizes DNC for Exclusion from Convention

Sean O’Brien, the president of the Teamsters union, expressed disappointment over the Democratic National Committee's (DNC) decision not to invite him to speak at their convention. O’Brien, a lifelong Democrat, highlighted the significance of the Teamsters, which has been active for 121 years, and suggested that his outspoken criticism of corporate elitism may have influenced the DNC's choice to exclude him. He emphasized that the DNC's relationships with major donors could have played a role in silencing his voice, which he believes is crucial for representing union interests. Despite the DNC's snub, O’Brien remains undeterred and has committed to promoting union values at any opportunity, including his recent appearance at the Republican National Convention (RNC). His speech there was reportedly well-received, with a poll indicating that only 11% of union members disapproved of his participation. O’Brien stated that he would respond to any political figure, including Trump and Biden, regarding issues affecting workers, labeling the firing of union organizers as "economic terrorism." The Teamsters union has historically endorsed Democratic candidates but has not made an endorsement for the upcoming 2024 election, marking a notable shift. O’Brien's engagement with the RNC has drawn criticism from some within the union, including Vice President John Palmer, who condemned the decision as legitimizing a party that has not supported workers' rights. As the DNC convenes, O’Brien's absence underscores the tension between labor unions and the Democratic Party, particularly regarding their approach to union leadership and support.