By Christopher M Peeks October 3rd, 2024
C-Dave Jemmison The Hill
The primary union for firefighters announced on Thursday that it would refrain from endorsing any presidential candidate this year despite having supported Democrat Joe Biden in the 2020 election. The International Association of Fire Fighters’ executive board narrowly voted against endorsing, with the union president, Edward Kelly, emphasizing that the decision was made with careful consideration to uphold and fortify unity.
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Representing 350,000 firefighters and emergency medical workers, the IAFF had endorsed Biden early in the 2020 campaign but has now opted not to take a stance for the 2024 election. This decision not to endorse may be considered significant, as unions typically align with the Democratic Party. Despite remaining neutral, the union's president urged members to actively participate in the upcoming election.
The union's choice not to endorse anyone this year deviates from its past endorsements of Barack Obama in 2008 and 2012. It is also noteworthy as the Trump campaign is anticipated to leverage this non-endorsement as a testament to the former president's appeal among rank-and-file union members.
Both Biden and Harris have advocated for legislation that would facilitate union formation, and many labor historians regard Biden’s administration as the most pro-union since Franklin D. Roosevelt’s. The Biden administration supported IAFF firefighters during a contract dispute with Boeing in May, with Biden advocating for the firefighters to receive "the pay and benefits they deserve."
Christopher M Peeks
Reporter and Columnist
Alabama Political Contributor
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