Trump announces teamsters union leader to speak at RNC

"When I am back in the White House, the hardworking Teamsters, and all working Americans, will once again have a country they can afford to live in and be respected around the world," he said.

By Ben Whedon

Published: June 21, 2024 3:10pm

Presumptive Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump on Friday announced that the president of a major union would speak at the Republican National Convention, marking the latest development in the GOP's push to win over organized labor.

"Sean O’Brien, the General President of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, has accepted my invitation to speak at the RNC Convention in Milwaukee. Our GREAT convention will unify Americans and demonstrate to the nation’s working families they come first," Trump posted on Truth Social.

"When I am back in the White House, the hardworking Teamsters, and all working Americans, will once again have a country they can afford to live in and be respected around the world. Sean, I look forward to seeing you represent the Teamsters in Milwaukee. Together we can Make America Great Again," he continued.

The International Brotherhood of Teamsters boasts 1.3 million members and 1,900 affiliate groups across the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico.

The former president has long hoped to sway union workers toward the GOP, highlighting the pitfalls of outsourcing jobs to China. Earlier this year, he feuded with the United Auto Workers leadership over its decision to endorse former President Joe Biden.

"[UAW President] Shawn Fain doesn’t understand this or have a clue. Get rid of this dope & vote for DJT. I will bring the Automobile Industry back to our Country," he said at the time.