Teamsters President Sean O'Brien Addresses RNC in Milwaukee, Representing 1.3 Million Members

Jul 16, 2024, 02:39 AM

In a historic first, Sean O'Brien, president of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, addressed the Republican National Convention (RNC) in Milwaukee on July 15, 2024. O'Brien's speech emphasized the need for respect for the American working class, regardless of political affiliation. He criticized big business, elites, and corporations for their lack of loyalty to the country and the working class. O'Brien also called for Republicans to follow the lead of Senators Josh Hawley and J.D. Vance in realigning with American workers. Despite not endorsing any candidate, O'Brien's presence at the RNC, invited by Trump, highlighted a significant shift as he became the first Teamsters president to speak at the event, traditionally known for its anti-union stance. His remarks, which included denouncing right-to-work laws and criticizing the Chamber of Commerce, received a standing ovation and underscored the growing alignment between the working class and the Republican Party under Donald Trump's influence. The Teamsters union, representing 1.3 million members, has historically endorsed Democrats.