The leaders of a prominent New York City union have spoken out against the Democratic Party and Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) for allegedly being out of touch with blue-collar members of the working class.
Robert "Bobby" Bartels, the business manager of Steamfitters Local 638, and Brian Kearney, the union's president, expressed their concerns in separate interviews. Bartels called the DSA candidates who won primary elections in New York last week against incumbent Democrats "communists" who do not have the support of the working class.
The union, which has existed for 150 years and has traditionally supported Democrat candidates, represents blue-collar steamfitters, pipefitters, HVAC technicians, welders, and industrial and mechanical service technicians. It previously broke ranks with Democrats and endorsed President Donald Trump in 2024.
Bartels criticized the far-left DSA candidates, including Darializa Avila Chevalier in New York's 13th Congressional District and Claire Valdez in New York's 7th Congressional District, for having radical views that prioritize free services over hard work. He also expressed frustration with the Democratic Party's shift to the left, which he believes undermines the party's connection with working-class Americans.
Bartels accused Democrats in power of being "narcissists" who double down on failed policies instead of correcting course. He specifically mentioned concerns about open border policies, which he believes drive down wages for union members by bringing in illegal immigrants who can work for lower rates.
Kearney, the union president, shared similar concerns. He stated that the DSA's work often conflicts with labor interests, particularly in the building trades. He suggested that the DSA needs to find common ground with labor unions in New York City.
Kearney also expressed disappointment with Mayor Zohran Mamdani's failure to deliver on his promise to support union labor. Mamdani's support for affordable housing and union labor was a key campaign issue, but Kearney believes that little progress has been made since taking office.
