As the 2024 U.S. presidential election approaches, union members are engaging in extensive door-to-door campaigns in critical swing states to rally support for Democratic candidate Kamala Harris. In an effort to capitalize on organized labor’s backing, the initiative aims to sway undecided voters in an election characterized by its closeness.
President Joe Biden, who positioned himself as the most pro-union leader in history, has set the stage for Harris to benefit from the labor movement's mobilization. However, the current political landscape is fragmented, with divisions evident within the labor community itself.
Tim Freeman, a hotel worker and Unite Here member from Philadelphia, has been actively canvassing since 2020, initially supporting Biden's campaign. He believes that engaging directly with voters is crucial. “It’s about understanding the issues and connecting with voters on a personal level,” Freeman stated, emphasizing the importance of personal interactions over campaign ads.
Unite Here, representing hospitality and food service workers, is spearheading the largest labor-led grassroots campaign this election season, targeting states like Pennsylvania, Arizona, and Nevada—regions identified as key battlegrounds. Recent polling indicates these states are highly competitive, with Pennsylvania and Nevada leaning slightly toward Democrats, while Arizona shows a narrow Republican advantage.
Freeman argues that Harris is a stronger ally for union workers compared to former President Trump, who has been criticized for opposing labor rights. He expressed concerns over the ongoing attacks on workers' rights, stating, “We cannot allow him to return to office.”
The union's ambitious goal for this election is to knock on 3.5 million doors across ten pivotal states, significantly expanding upon their previous efforts. In 2020, Unite Here claimed to have mobilized over 440,000 infrequent voters, helping secure victories in critical areas.
Gwen Mills, president of Unite Here, highlighted the importance of fostering meaningful connections with voters who may feel disengaged. “Our members are well-positioned to have impactful conversations that could sway the election’s outcome,” she noted.
Additionally, the union has already conducted over 3 million door-knocking efforts this year, engaging with potential voters to emphasize the significance of their participation in the upcoming election. Mills underscored the critical nature of these discussions, especially given the competitive margins in battleground states.
Union efforts also extend to past elections, such as the Georgia Senate runoff races and recent Virginia state elections, showcasing their ongoing commitment to voter mobilization.
Pew Research Center's 2023 data indicates a solid majority of union members, about 59%, align with the Democratic Party, making their support crucial in tight races. However, divisions exist within the labor movement, as exemplified by the Teamsters union’s decision to refrain from endorsing a candidate this election cycle.
The United Auto Workers (UAW) has shown a different dynamic, with its president, Shawn Fain, endorsing Harris. This endorsement reflects a significant shift among auto workers, as recent polling suggests that UAW members favor Harris over Trump by a considerable margin.
In conjunction with their own efforts, other unions like the Service Employees International Union and the National Education Association have launched joint initiatives for statewide canvassing in key battleground states, signaling a united front in mobilizing support for Democratic candidates.
David Bonilla, a 21-year-old airport service worker from Phoenix, Arizona, has recently joined the canvassing efforts. He is motivated by the desire to advocate for working-class issues and ensure that supportive candidates are elected. “The Biden administration has empowered unions, and I believe Kamala Harris will continue that support,” Bonilla said.
The stakes are high for labor organizations as they work to distinguish the clear differences between the candidates. Harris's support for labor rights contrasts sharply with Trump's record, which includes measures that have weakened worker protections.
Morlaina Bruce, a Culinary Union member in Las Vegas, underscored her reasons for campaigning, citing Harris's commitment to issues affecting workers, including price control and reproductive rights. “We cannot afford the division and animosity that Trump has fostered,” she stated.
As the election draws closer, union members remain steadfast in their efforts, determined to ensure that their voices and the voices of those they represent are heard.
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