Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, the Democratic vice presidential candidate, embarked on his first solo campaign stop in California, delivering a speech to members of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME). He emphasized his pro-union credentials, highlighting his past as a union member and his record as governor in supporting collective bargaining rights. Walz also stressed the importance of unions in building the middle class, stating, “The vice president and I, we know exactly who built this country. It was nurses, it was teachers, and it was state and local government employees that built this nation. People in this room, built the middle class.”
This event, held in front of one of the country’s most prominent public sector unions, underscored the importance of AFSCME’s 1.5 million members to the Harris campaign. With Walz joining the ticket, the campaign is seeking to solidify support among this powerful demographic. Walz, himself a former union member, has brought a Midwest and blue-collar vibe to the campaign, consistently promoting Harris’s commitment to working-class interests.
While traditionally unions have favored Democratic candidates, the Republican party, particularly under former President Donald Trump, has been actively courting blue-collar workers and union members. Trump’s campaign has made significant inroads among these voters, particularly in key Rust Belt states. The Trump campaign has targeted hospitality workers with promises of eliminating taxes on tips, while also highlighting the selection of Ohio Sen. JD Vance as running mate, a figure known for his outreach to Rust Belt voters.
Meanwhile, cracks in the Democrats’ relationship with unions have begun to emerge, most notably with Teamsters President Sean O’Brien’s unprecedented decision to speak at the Republican National Convention and express openness to supporting Republican candidates. O’Brien stated, “We are not beholden to anyone or any party. We want to know one thing: What are you doing to help American workers?”
Despite these challenges, Walz remains optimistic about the Democrats’ ability to secure support from American workers. He characterized the Republican ticket as “waging war on workers” and their ability to collectively bargain. With the election just months away, the fight for the support of American workers remains a pivotal battleground for both parties.
