Union Leaders Criticize Democrats and DSA’s Connection with Working Class

Two notable union leaders from New York City have voiced strong criticisms against the Democratic Party and the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), arguing that these groups are out of touch with the blue-collar workforce they claim to support.

“In my opinion, they’re more aligned with communism, and I don’t believe they gain real support from the true working class—the taxpayers,” said Robert “Bobby” Bartels Jr., the business manager of Steamfitters Local 638, in a discussion with Fox News Digital.

The union, representing steam fitters, plumbing fitters, HVAC technicians, and others, has been active for 150 years and has historically backed mostly Democratic candidates. Despite this, there have been instances, like the support for Donald Trump in 2024, showing a potential shift in allegiance.

Bartels specifically criticized a recent DSA candidate who emerged victorious in the New York state primary, defeating established Democrats. This includes individuals like Daliaza Avila Chevalier and Claire Valdez, both of whom are members of the DSA and have adopted radical stances that opponents highlighted during their campaigns.

“They appeal to a demographic that expects everything for free without the effort,” Bartels remarked. “It seems the Democratic Party has veered much further to the left. The more discussions I have with those in construction, the more I see a drift from the party.”

He labeled the Democratic Party as “narcissistic,” expressing frustration that when progressive policies don’t succeed, the party doesn’t reevaluate but instead digs deeper into the leftist agenda. He pointed out concerns that open border policies are negatively impacting union wages.

“That really doesn’t sit well with us,” Bartels continued. “The influx of illegal immigrants is taking away American jobs and pushing down wages.” He added that these groups seem to be undermining those who built American workplaces.

He emphasized that leftist leaders, like Avila Chevalier, don’t truly support the working class, which he finds contradictory. “I’m working class, and I don’t see them representing me,” Bartels stated. “They lean towards supporting individuals who seem to rob the working class.”

Brian Carney, who is the president of Steamfitters Local 638, shared his perspective, noting that much of the DSA’s approach doesn’t incorporate the views of workers, especially those in construction.

“Traditionally, we’ve identified as working-class Democrats,” Carney noted. “While I believe the New York City labor movement generally aligns on many issues, the progressive tilt of DSA occasionally complicates support.” He mentioned that Mayor Zoran Mamdani has been initiating his progressive agenda but hasn’t fulfilled promises to support union building associations.

Recently, the New York City Rent Guidelines Board voted to freeze rents, which aligns with Mamdani’s campaign promises. Carney reflected, “He’s repeatedly emphasized labor unions during his campaign. Addressing affordable housing was a significant topic, with promises that it would be built by unions, yet we haven’t seen those actions materialize.”

He expressed hope that Mamdani follows through on his commitment to leverage unions effectively across the city.

Mamdani and the DSA candidates did not respond to requests for comments.