06/17/2026
Below please find the media statement from the Illinois AFL-CIO.
Teamsters local 916 fully supports this action.
MEDIA STATEMENT
June 17, 2026
CONTACT: [email protected]
Illinois AFL-CIO Statement on Deferred Endorsements For 2026 General Election
Springfield, IL -- Illinois AFL-CIO President Tim Drea released the following statement:
"Over the past year, Illinois AFL-CIO affiliates and union members from across Illinois consistently voiced frustrations about the lack of progress around our core legislative priorities. This past state legislative session was especially concerning, as Springfield not only failed to advance key priorities, but the process by which legislation was considered fell short of what working people deserve. These concerns span the full breadth of our movement, with public sector, private sector, manufacturing, and building trades all expressing dissatisfaction.
“The Illinois AFL-CIO remains committed to electing and working with pro-labor politicians. Our endorsement carries the validation of the largest statewide labor affiliate in Illinois and activates thousands of working people for grassroots campaigning. Now more than ever, we must be thoughtful about supporting candidates who do not just talk about labor priorities, but deliver real wins for working people.
“Given the widespread frustration with both the pace and process around our legislative priorities, made clear during today's Committee on Political Engagement (COPE) meeting, the Illinois AFL-CIO Executive Board has deferred endorsing any candidate in the 2026 General Election at this time.
“Illinois has long been a pro-worker state, and we appreciate the lawmakers who fought hard this session on behalf of workers. We have an obligation to make decisions that best serve our members in 2026 and into the future. We will continue to evaluate candidates and may reassess in the months ahead."