Kamala Harris Woos Union Members, a Voter Group Yet to Commit
TL/DR –
Vice President Kamala Harris addressed the Service Employees International Union in Philadelphia, criticizing the previous administration for reportedly prioritizing tax cuts for billionaires and highlighting the current administration’s efforts to support working class Americans. Some of the attendees protested US support for Israel during her speech, which caused a reaction from other union members who drowned them out with chants. The story also noted that while organized labor and unions are a critical part of the Democratic voter base, some union members have shown support for former President Donald Trump.
Vice President Kamala Harris Rallies Union Members in Key Battleground State
Vice President Kamala Harris on Tuesday rallied members of the Service Employees International Union, one of the largest labor unions in the U.S, reinforcing Democrats’ efforts to position themselves as advocates of the working class and Republicans as favoring the wealthy.
“November is about two choices,” Ms. Harris stated in Philadelphia, contrasting the last administration’s policies that favored billionaires with the current administration’s commitment to making billionaires pay their fair share.
Organized Labor and the Political Battle
Organized labor plays a crucial role in President Biden’s campaign, although some union members have drifted towards former President Trump. According to a New York Times/Siena College/Philadelphia Inquirer poll, 47 percent of union members in six of the top battleground states showed support for Trump, as compared to 42 percent for Biden.
Ms. Harris’s Speech and the Response
Ms. Harris used her speech to underscore the Biden administration’s accomplishments for workers and to solidify support within this important constituency. However, her speech was also marked by protests over Israel’s activities in Gaza, with S.E.I.U. members countering the protesters with their own chants.
The Role of the S.E.I.U
The S.E.I.U., representing approximately two million service, government, and health care workers, is a vital backer of the Biden administration. Union leaders have pledged to spend $200 million to rally working-class voters for Biden and Democrats in the upcoming election.
Biden’s Efforts to Boost Union Enthusiasm
In attempts to offset a recent dip in union enthusiasm, Biden has shown active support for striking workers. His campaign efforts have garnered the endorsement of several major unions, such as the United Automobile Workers and the United Steelworkers.
Philadelphia: A Key for Victory
Ms. Harris’s Philadelphia address highlighted its importance as a linchpin for victory in Pennsylvania. However, Biden has work to do to win over black voters in Philadelphia, a key demographic for Democrats, who have shown less excitement about his candidacy compared to four years ago.
In her speech, Ms. Harris recognized the first Black president in the S.E.I.U.’s history, April Verrett.
Harris Criticizes Trump
Ms. Harris also criticized Mr. Trump for sharing a video referencing the “Reich,” a term linked to Adolf Hitler’s Nazi regime, further emphasizing the stakes of the upcoming election.
Ruth Igielnik contributed reporting from Washington.
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