Your fight in Wisconsin captured the imagination of our country—and showed the world what the labor movement can be. Not stuffy guys in suits holding press conferences and making empty promises. But working people uniting together and mobilizing to defend our rights. 

I want to bring the fighting spirit into the Teamsters Union. And that is why I am running for Teamster General President. 

In one month, you did more out in the street to restore labor’s political clout than the last 12 years of Capitol Hill lobbying by Teamster officials and professional lobbyists. 

This grassroots action wasn’t expensive—but it was priceless. And worth a lot more than the millions of dollars in blank checks our union writes every year to politicians who forget all about us as soon the ballots are counted.

We are not going to outspend Corporate America—or buy political influence. 

As Teamster General President, I will stop writing blank checks to corporate politicians of any party. We will use Teamster political action funds to educate the public, mobilize members and our allies, and fight for change.

Remarks by Sandy Pope at the Local 344 Candidate Forum. Read more of what Sandy had to say.