The International Association of Firefighters (IAFF) choice to remain neutral in the 2024 presidential election has emerged as a setback for the Harris-Walz campaign.

Following remarks by JD Vance, the IAFF's non-endorsement highlights broader electoral challenges for the Harris-Walz ticket in swaying union support, Breitbart reported.

IAFF President Edward Kelly announced the decision not to endorse a candidate, stating it followed an executive board meeting. The choice was by a narrow margin of 1.2 percent, illustrating the divide within the union. The IAFF's approach was influenced by member opinions on policy issues important to them.

Reasons Behind the IAFF Non-Endorsement

Edward Kelly emphasized that keeping the organization united was paramount, aligning with IAFF’s historical commitment to improving firefighters' lives. “This decision, which we took very seriously, is the best way to preserve and strengthen our unity,” Kelly said.

Previously, the IAFF endorsed President Biden in the 2020 election. However, this year, they opted to stay impartial after deliberating on internal views during their executive meeting.

August's IAFF event featured remarks by Sen. JD Vance, creating a stir among attendees. Vance commented on the varied reactions, saying: “Semper fi, guys. Sounds like we’ve got some fans and some haters.”

JD Vance's Role in Shaping Union Opinions

During his speech, Vance shared that the New York City Fire Marshals Benevolent Association endorsed the Trump-Vance ticket. The shift in endorsement direction underscores the challenges emerging for the Harris-Walz campaign as it vies for union support.

The lack of endorsement from the IAFF piles onto difficulties Harris's campaign faces. The Teamsters Union has also declined to endorse, further complicating her efforts. This reflects broader preferences within union memberships, swaying towards the Trump-Vance ticket.

Teamsters polling highlighted a preference for Trump over Harris, an alarming development for the Harris-Walz ticket. A spokesperson for Vance, William Martin, admitted: “It’s no wonder that rank-and-file Teamsters support President Trump.”

Implications for Harris Amidst Union Dynamics

Martin cited “crippling inflation, high gas and electricity prices,” among other issues, as reasons for dissatisfaction with Harris. According to him, union members felt “safer and better off” under the Trump administration, leading to their current preferences.

The IAFF’s decision not to endorse reflects internal divisions within the union, and their resolve to prioritize unity over partisan backing. Their focus remains steadfast on “improving the lives of firefighters and their families.”

Kelly's statement, ”the IAFF will continue its work to improve the lives of firefighters,” highlights the union’s ongoing mission outside of election dynamics. The neutral stance serves as a testament to the varied views within its ranks.

The IAFF’s decision to remain neutral in the 2024 race significantly impacts the political landscape. It signals unions' increasing unpredictability in solidifying campaign backing, especially for the Harris-Walz ticket.