Ilhan Omar primary opponent scores endorsement from United Steelworkers union: ‘Deeply honored’

Rep. Ilhan Omar's (D-MN) Democratic primary opponent won the endorsement of the United Steelworkers union.

Don Samuels, 75, former Minneapolis councilman, has positioned himself as more of a centrist lawmaker, in contrast to the progressivism of Omar, who narrowly won the 2022 primary by just 2% in a race largely dominated by concerns over crime. Samuels's chances in this race grew Monday when he won endorsements from United Steelworkers and the International Union of Operating Engineers.

“Our campaign is not just about winning an election, it's about making a real difference in the
lives of working families," Samuels said in a statement to the Washington Examiner. "I’m deeply honored to have the support of these unions and their members as we gather momentum for the Aug. 13 primary."

He then targeted Omar’s previous moves to break with other Democrats and President Joe Biden.

"Unlike my opponent, who was one of only six Democrats to oppose Joe Biden’s historic infrastructure bill, I'm committed to going to Washington to collaborate with the president and my colleagues in Congress. Together, we can pass legislation that creates jobs and opportunities, not just make a point,” Samuels added.

The Washington Examiner reached out to Omar for comment.

USW represents 1.2 million workers and retirees across the country, while the IUOE represents over 400,000 workers across the United States and Canada. Those from the union who spoke in favor of Samuels portrayed Omar as too divisive of a figure.

“We support Don because our members deserve and expect representation focused on improving the lives of working people instead of political grandstanding and division,” said business manager Jason George, a member of the IUOE’s Local 49, which covers Omar’s district. “When Rep. Omar voted against President Biden’s historic infrastructure package, it sent a clear message to our members that it was time for new leadership in the Fifth District.”

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Omar is one of a few members of the progressive House "squad" who face a difficult primary, buoyed by outside groups' fundraising propelled by the group members' certain progressive stances, especially on the war in Gaza. Despite Samuels being one of the most vocal opponents of Israel, the American Israel Public Affairs Committee has largely refrained from supporting him, much to his frustration.

Omar has a clear fundraising advantage over Samuels, raising roughly $4.9 million compared to Samuels's $775,000 as of mid-April, according to the Minnpost.