IAM Union members and activists from across the country gathered in Savannah, Georgia, for the Machinists Non-Partisan Political League (MNPL) Conference, according to a March 31 announcement. The annual event brought together union members to enhance their political education, coordinate electoral and legislative strategies, and strengthen efforts to support candidates aligned with working families.
The conference took on added importance this year as delegates prepared for the upcoming 2026 midterm elections. Attendees discussed current challenges including rising household costs, attacks on workers’ rights, and concerns about threats to American democracy.
Brian Bryant, IAM International President and keynote speaker at the conference, addressed these issues directly. “The MNPL isn’t just another conference,” said Bryant. “This is the political engine of our union. This is where power is built. This is where we decide whether we will shape the future or have it decided for us.”
Delegates also heard from Taylor Rehmet, IAM District 776 member and Texas State Council of Machinists President. Rehmet was recognized for flipping a plus-15 Trump district and becoming the first rank-and-file union member elected to the Texas State Senate.
Hasan Solomon, IAM National Legislative and Political Director, spoke about advocacy efforts: “Our MNPL program helps remind elected officials in the statehouse and on Capitol Hill that IAM members and our issues should always be a part of the conversations,” said Solomon. He noted that attendees exceeded fundraising goals set at last year’s conference: “These contributions will ensure that IAM members’ voices will be heard loud and clear on our issues ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.”
At the close of the conference, Bryant joined thousands at a “No Kings” rally in Savannah calling for solidarity among working people nationwide. He urged delegates to continue building their local political programs as well as increasing MNPL checkoff enrollment.
Founded in 1947 to help coordinate political activity among its members, MNPL will celebrate its 80th anniversary next year.
The next major event for IAM Union is its Legislative Conference scheduled for June 22–24 at Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill.
