MINNEAPOLIS— A union representing Minnesota firefighters has endorsed the Democratic ticket in the 2024 presidential election, breaking with its larger union’s non-endorsement. It’s a similar movement to what Midwestern Teamsters did just that last month.
The Minnesota Professional Fire Fighters, which represents more than 2,000 firefighters, paramedics and dispatchers, said Thursday it is “proud to endorse the Harris-Walz campaign for the 2024 elections.” The International Association of Firefighters previously announced it would not support the 2024 campaign.
“This endorsement is not just about politics,” said local union president Scott Vadnais. “It’s about protecting the public’s wellbeing and ensuring our members are recognized and supported for the vital work we do. We are confident that the Harris-Walz team will prioritize the safety of Minnesota communities and continue to advocate for the needs of first responders.”
In a statement Thursday, the international union said not approving it “is the best way to preserve and strengthen our unity.”
“Over the past year, the IAFF has taken unprecedented steps to hear our members’ views on the candidates and policy issues that matter most to them,” said President Edward Kelly. “The IAFF Board of Directors has determined that we are better able to advocate for our members and make progress on the issues that matter to them when we stand together as a union.”
In July, Kelly made a statement in support of President Joe Biden.
“Firefighters past, present and future are better off because of Joe Biden,” he said. “He is undoubtedly the best president that firefighters and medical responders have ever had.”
Late last month, some Teamsters in Minnesota and other Midwestern states broke ranks with their national union by endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris and Gov. Tim Walz. Teamsters Joint Council 32 said the Democratic candidates are “proven champions for union workers.”
The national Teamsters union declined to back either party in the election, saying it had “few commitments on major Teamsters issues from former President Donald Trump or Vice President Kamala Harris — and found no definitive support among members for the nominee of both parties.”
