Minnesota Governor Tim Walz made his first solo campaign stop in California, speaking to members of the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), a prominent public sector union. Walz highlighted the importance of unions in building the nation’s middle class, emphasizing the role of nurses, teachers, and state and local government employees. He touted his pro-union credentials, mentioning his past membership in a teacher’s union and his record as governor supporting collective bargaining for workers. Walz also noted his position as the first union member on a presidential ticket since Ronald Reagan.
While the stop in California may not seem crucial on the campaign trail, AFSCME members from across the country were present to hear from Governor Walz and potentially the future Vice President Kamala Harris. The union, with 1.5 million members primarily consisting of state and local government employees, represents a significant demographic that the Harris campaign seeks to secure support from. Walz, known for his Midwest and blue-collar appeal, has been emphasizing Harris’ working class credentials since joining her on the campaign trail, highlighting her support for American workers.
Former President Donald Trump attempted to appeal to working class voters, especially union members, by making promises such as eliminating taxes on tips for hospitality workers. While most unions traditionally endorse Democratic candidates, cracks in the Democratic Party’s relationship with unions have started to appear, as shown by Teamsters President Sean O’Brien speaking at the Republican National Convention and expressing openness to supporting Republican candidates. Despite this, Walz expressed confidence that American workers would support him and Harris in the upcoming election, criticizing Trump and Republican vice presidential candidate JD Vance for their perceived hostility towards workers and unions.
Vice President Kamala Harris has also made efforts to appeal to the same working class voters, with the Harris-Walz ticket earning the endorsement of the hospitality union UNITE HERE. Harris has made promises to support American workers, similar to Trump’s attempts to win over blue-collar workers. In response to the endorsement by UNITE HERE, the Trump campaign criticized union bosses for being out of touch with the workers they represent. The Trump campaign has also chosen Ohio Senator JD Vance as running mate to make a broader appeal to Rust Belt workers, promising to never forget his roots in small towns and communities affected by job loss and overseas conflict.
Walz’s optimism stems from a belief that American workers will choose his and Harris’ platform in the November election over the policies of Trump and Vance, which they view as harmful to workers and their rights. While Trump has attempted to reach out to blue-collar workers and union members, the Harris-Walz ticket is also making efforts to secure support from this demographic. The dynamics between political parties and unions are shifting, with unions like the Teamsters showing openness to supporting Republican candidates. Despite these challenges, Walz remains hopeful that their platform will resonate with American workers and secure their votes in the upcoming election.
