The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), one of the largest labor unions in the United States, has initiated a “Workers vs Billionaires” political campaign aimed at mobilizing support for pro-worker candidates in the upcoming midterm elections. This campaign will target members across eight battleground states, including Maine, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Texas, Ohio, Georgia, Arizona, Nevada, and Illinois.
With nearly 700,000 active and retired members, IAM represents workers from major corporations such as Boeing, Lockheed Martin, United Airlines, and Harley-Davidson. The union’s leadership emphasizes the need for greater political engagement, as articulated by IAM International President Brian Bryant, who stated, “We’re living in an economy that only favors billionaires and does not favor working people.”
Political Landscape and Economic Concerns
The IAM’s campaign comes at a time when many union members express dissatisfaction with the current economic climate. Bryant noted that several members who previously supported former President Trump in the 2024 election are now reconsidering their choices due to rising inflation and increasing costs of living. Since Trump took office, inflation has risen from 3.0% in January 2025 to 3.4% in August 2026, alongside soaring health insurance costs and higher gas prices.
Jason Gayler, president of IAM local 776A in Fort Worth, Texas, highlighted the changing political dynamics in his state, noting that it is “more purple than what people put out to be.” He pointed out that the cost of living in North Texas has significantly increased, motivating members to support candidates focused on working-class issues.
Grassroots Engagement and Legislative Goals
IAM members have been actively engaging with one another to discuss pressing issues, with the economy, cost of living, and healthcare emerging as top concerns. Shay Blodgett, an Alaska Airlines worker in Phoenix, mentioned that the union has opposed Republican-led legislation that would restrict public sector workers’ organizing abilities and has supported local labor initiatives.
In Pennsylvania, IAM is backing Democratic candidates aiming to flip four congressional districts while maintaining control of the governorship. Former IAM local 1776 president Rich Howell criticized Trump’s unfulfilled promises regarding economic improvements, stating, “It’s billionaires versus the workers, and that’s the stance we’re making.”
As the midterm elections approach, the IAM’s campaign underscores the growing tension between labor interests and the influence of wealthy donors in politics, with over $1.6 billion already spent in the 2026 election cycle. The union aims to send a clear message to lawmakers that the current economic status quo is unacceptable and that working people deserve greater attention and support.
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