IAFF Union Faces Internal Debate Over 2024 Presidential Endorsement Decision

Presidential election 2024 sign on American flag.

The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) follows suit with another major union, taking a significant step by withholding their endorsement for the 2024 presidential election.

At a Glance

  • The IAFF announced it will not endorse a presidential candidate in 2024.
  • The decision was made by a narrow executive board vote margin of 1.2%.
  • Historically, the IAFF has supported Democratic candidates.
  • The union’s decision aims to preserve unity among its 350,000 members.

A Union Decision Reflects Broader Trends

The IAFF’s decision to withhold endorsement in the 2024 presidential race sends ripples through the political landscape, reflecting a strategy focused on unity and effective advocacy. The move comes despite the IAFF’s historical tendency to back Democratic candidates, including endorsing President Joe Biden in 2020. Internal polling highlighted a distinct member division, with substantial support split between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump, prompting the union to prioritize cohesion over political allegiance.

IAFF President Edward Kelly articulated the thought process behind this decision, emphasizing the need for unity to effectively advocate for firefighters’ interests. He stated, “better able to advocate for our members and make progress on the issues that matter to them if we, as a union, are standing shoulder-to-shoulder. This decision, which we took very seriously, is the best way to preserve and strengthen our unity.”

Political Implications and Member Reactions

The IAFF’s lack of a presidential endorsement is interpreted diversely across the political spectrum. The Trump campaign views this as a setback for Kamala Harris, who received endorsements from the AFL-CIO and United Auto Workers. In August, presentations by Harris’ running mate, Tim Walz, and Trump’s running mate, JD Vance, underscored contrasting receptions among the IAFF audience. While Walz appeared to garner positive attention, Vance encountered mixed reactions, a reflection of the union’s divided stance.

“This may come as a shock to you, but once upon a time I wasn’t a Trump guy either,” Vance admitted, indicating the complex dynamics within union politics.

Some IAFF members worry about potential divisiveness an endorsement might spark, a sentiment emphasizing concerns of alienating factions and weakening the union’s collective bargaining power. The executive board’s narrow 1.2% margin in deciding against an endorsement underscores varying opinions within the leadership itself.

A Step Towards Strategic Independence

The IAFF’s current decision mirrors a similar stance adopted by the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, underscoring a growing trend among major unions to disengage from political endorsements. This move not only preserves the union’s unity but also strategically positions the IAFF to better negotiate and advocate for its members without the pressure of aligning with political entities. Previously, the IAFF refrained from public endorsement in the 2016 election, highlighting a trend of selective political involvement.

“In a surprise move, the International Association of Fire Fighters said Thursday it will not endorse a candidate in the 2024 presidential race.” –

As unions weigh their influence in political spheres, the IAFF’s decision may signal a shift toward prioritizing internal cohesion and advocacy over traditional endorsement practices. With the presidential race intensifying, this non-endorsement strategy could ultimately strengthen the IAFF’s ability to champion critical issues without compromising member integrity or unity.

Sources

1. Firefighters’ union votes not to endorse Harris or Trump

2. Firefighters union declines to endorse a presidential candidate

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