2026 Labor Notes Conference

Union members are often encouraged to run for office—whether as independents, third-party candidates, or progressive, pro-labor Democrats. But making the transition from labor activism to electoral politics is not easy in a two-party system dominated by big money, where few working-class people hold public office. We’ll address the challenges of recruiting candidates and campaign volunteers, raising money, getting endorsements, and winning elections, using the skills and experience of past local union leadership or staff. Hear about running inside and outside the Democratic Party, at the state, local, and federal level.