Sean O’Brien, the general president of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, has endorsed Republican Sen. Ashley Moody for Senate in Florida, a move that deviates from typical union endorsements favoring Democratic candidates.
O’Brien, who leads a union of approximately 1.3 million members, announced his support for Moody on Sunday, stating she has been instrumental in protecting workers’ pensions, defending jobs, and supporting union apprenticeship programs. He also expressed the Teamsters' intention to work with Moody on the Senate HELP Committee to pass the Faster Labor Contracts Act.
This endorsement marks a notable break from national union sentiment, although O’Brien has previously spoken at the 2024 Republican National Convention. At the time, he noted that the Democratic Party had not invited him to speak at its convention. O’Brien, who identifies as a lifelong Democrat, stated that he represents 1.3 million working men and women and is unconcerned with criticism from either the far-left or far-right.
Sen. Moody welcomed the endorsement, affirming her commitment to protecting American workers, strengthening job opportunities, and ensuring resources for training the next generation. "It’s been great to deliver for Florida’s working families," she said.
Moody’s Democratic opponent, Angie Nixon, a state lawmaker, responded to the endorsement by posting a photo of herself with O’Brien and stating, "Ashley Moody never walked the line with you." Nixon added, "But ok brother. Shout out to all the rank and file Teamsters that are voting for me. I will always stand with you."
O’Brien's decision to vote in Florida and endorse a Republican candidate has drawn criticism from some corners. Some commenters on social media characterized O’Brien’s actions as aligning with a "scab" mentality, a term used in union contexts for someone who works during a strike. The endorsement comes as the election nears, with polls set to open soon.