International Brotherhood of Teamsters President Addresses Republican National Convention, Criticizes Big Business

Sean O'Brien, the president of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, made history by delivering a keynote speech at the Republican National Convention, marking a shift in the organization’s traditional Democratic affiliations. The Teamsters, a 121-year-old union, have refrained from endorsing a candidate in the 2024 election cycle but have recently shown openness to engaging with Republicans in light of their increasingly populist rhetoric.

O’Brien’s speech on Monday at the RNC was one of the most anti-big business addresses seen at the convention, as he took aim at major corporations like Walmart and Amazon, accusing them of exploiting workers. He also criticized the Chamber of Commerce, labeling it as “unions for big business,” and lamented the lack of worker-centric policies in Washington.

Former President Donald Trump, who made a surprise appearance at the convention following an attempt on his life on Saturday, gave O’Brien a standing ovation for his speech. Trump’s gesture was well-received by his supporters and family members present in the VIP box, indicating a sense of unity in the face of adversity.

O’Brien’s speech underscored a willingness to engage with both Democrats and Republicans, emphasizing that the Teamsters are not bound by party affiliations but rather seek to advance a pro-worker agenda. His address marks a departure from the traditional union playbook and aligns with the GOP‘s evolving stance on worker-friendly policies since Trump’s election in 2016.

The shifting dynamics within the Republican Party, as evidenced by O’Brien’s presence at the RNC, signal a broader trend toward bridging the gap between labor unions and conservative politics. With O’Brien’s unprecedented speech at the convention, the Teamsters have positioned themselves as a key player in the evolving landscape of American politics.