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 delegates to focus on political education, electoral and legislative strategy, and efforts to strengthen union influence in upcoming elections.
The conference was held as preparations intensify for the 2026 midterm elections. Delegates addressed challenges such as rising household costs, threats to workers’ rights, and concerns about democratic institutions.
IAM International President Brian Bryant delivered the keynote address at the conference. “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, who became the first rank-and-file union member elected to the Texas State Senate after winning a district previously carried by former President Trump by fifteen points.
Hasan Solomon, IAM National Legislative and Political Director, said: “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.” Solomon added that delegates 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 end of this year’s gathering, Bryant joined thousands at a “No Kings” rally in Savannah to call for solidarity among working people nationwide. He urged delegates to continue building their political programs locally as well as growing checkoff enrollment for MNPL initiatives.
Founded in 1947 so IAM members could pool resources for political activity supporting pro-labor candidates, MNPL marks its eightieth anniversary next year. The next major event on IAM’s calendar is its Legislative Conference scheduled for June 22–24 at Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill.
