TDU's History

Ann_and_Dianna_copy.jpgHow the Reform Movement Has Changed the Teamsters Union (1976-1979)
In 1976 the Teamsters Union was in big trouble. Union leaders had allowed organized crime to infiltrate the highest levels of the union. Read More


presser_0.jpgWinning the Fight for Democracy (The 1980s)

The 1980s were a difficult time for working Teamsters. They were years of economic recession, freight industry deregulation, and concessionary bargaining. Read More


img032.jpgRebuilding Teamster Power (1991-1997)

Rank-and-file Teamsters won the right to vote for top Teamster officers after a decade-long fight led by TDU. In the 1990s members used that right to elect new leaders and change our union’s direction. Read More


history_graphic_-_1998-2001.jpgThe Fight to Save Our Union (1998-2007)

After the UPS strike victory in 1997, the Teamsters stood at the forefront of the American labor movement. But there were tough times ahead. The coming years would see Ron Carey’s reform efforts as IBT President ended and the restoration of old-guard leadership at the IBT. Read More


Saving Our Contracts, Pensions and the Right to Vote (2008-2013)

TDU helps lead a national movement to protect pensions, continues to mobilize Teamsters to fight for stronger contracts, and holds the line against the old-guard's moves to hijack Teamster elections and take away members' right to vote. Read More

 

From Vote No, to Vote Them Out (2013-2020)
TDU mobilizes hundreds of thousands of members across the country to reject contract concessions, and helps new insurgent teams take back their local unions. We help build an upsurge in the Teamsters that is ready to win new leadership and a new direction for the union. Read More

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Recent News

Teamsters United Slate Announced for 2026 IBT Election

The O’Brien-Zuckerman Teamsters United Slate for the 2026 Teamster Election has been announced.

IBT Election Supervisor Speaks at Teamsters Unity Conference

Election Supervisor Timothy S. Hillman spoke to leaders and members from almost every local on the Election Rules and timeline for the 2025-2026 Election for International Union Officers and Convention Delegates.

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