D.R.I.V.E.  (Democrat Republician Independent Voter Education)

     D.R.I.V.E. is one of the largest programs of its kind in the United States and is dedicated to bettering Teamster lives through the political process. Today we are all faced with many challenges that take up our time and energy.  We need an organized effort on our behalf to “watch our backs” so we can concentrate on the good things in life, like spending time with our families.  Most of us work long hours and don’t have the time to keep up with the legislation politicians are trying to pass that will affect our lives. The people we elect to office levy our taxes, regulate workplace safety and health conditions, and create the laws that govern our lives.  Politicians truly affect our world.  Gains that Teamsters win through collective bargaining can easily be taken away in the legislative process -- It happens every day.

     Representatives from our Local and D.R.I.V.E. sit down face-to-face with politicians and explain the working person’s side of issues such as health care, retirement security, trade agreements and overtime pay, just to name a few.  They also help to draft legislation that benefits Teamster families and sometimes you will see Teamster members out working specifically for a candidate who has been endorsed because that candidate is committed to protecting our jobs, our wages, and our benefits.

     Politicians are elected by us and need to be accountable to us. Big business outspends us in politics by 15-1, so we have to remain active on the political front to protect our way of life from being sold to the highest bidder.  More than ever, Teamsters have to stand and fight for a place at the table when our government makes decisions.

     Voluntary and every bit as important as your union membership, D.R.I.V.E. means a more effective union that is better able to fight for your rights.  We encourage every member to register to vote and to join the national D.R.I.V.E. Program.  For as little as $1.00 a week, you and your Teamsters brothers and sisters can make a big difference.