As reported by the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), nearly 4,000 delegates and guests gathered in Boston for the IAFF’s 57th Convention, where both 2024 Vice Presidential nominees addressed the audience.
Governor Tim Walz (D-M.N.) and Senator J.D. Vance (R-O.H.) praised the work of firefighters and shared their visions for the nation and the fire service.
Each candidate outlined their plans to support first responders if elected, emphasizing their commitment to labor unions and the importance of securing the endorsement of the IAFF, the largest labor union for firefighters and emergency workers in North America.
General President Edward Kelly underscored the importance of political engagement for the IAFF.
He stated: “We have to play in politics. We have to play hard, and we have to play smart. Our members that elected us deserve nothing less.”
Kelly highlighted the role of politics in identifying allies and opponents, urging the union to remain politically active.
Governor Tim Walz addressed the convention on Wednesday, focusing on his background as a union member and his efforts to support firefighter issues.
He recounted his achievements in Minnesota, including bolstering resources for firefighter training, investing in equipment and facilities, and enacting comprehensive firefighter legislation.
Walz said: “As governor, I was proud to bolster resources for firefighter training and education, to invest in the equipment and the facilities to keep you safe, and to sign the most comprehensive firefighter legislation in the nation.”
He also promised that, if elected, his administration would ensure that firefighters have the necessary resources and protections to perform their duties safely.
Senator J.D. Vance spoke at the convention on Thursday, presenting his vision for a Republican party that prioritizes the American worker and supports first responders.
Vance, who is running alongside former President Donald Trump, assured the audience that their administration would advocate for firefighters’ rights, including collective bargaining and retirement benefits.
Vance said: “Whatever your politics and whatever your preferences, whether you choose to endorse us or not, President Trump and I believe in our firefighters.
“We believe in our first responders, and we will never stop fighting for you.”
He also pledged an “open door policy” for labor unions in a potential second Trump administration.
Both candidates shared personal stories highlighting the impact firefighters have had on their lives.
Walz recalled losing a close friend, Chris Parsons, a St. Paul Fire Department captain, in the line of duty.
He remarked on the heroism and generosity of firefighters like Parsons and stressed that every hero deserves to return home safely after each shift.
Vance shared a story from his childhood when his mother, who struggled with drug addiction, was saved by first responders.
He described how firefighters and EMTs not only helped his mother but also provided comfort to him and his sister during a difficult time.
The 2024 Vice Presidential nominees , Governor Tim Walz and Senator J.D. Vance, addressed nearly 4,000 delegates at the IAFF’s 57th Convention in Boston.
Both candidates praised firefighters for their bravery and commitment, while also outlining their plans to support the fire service if elected.
Walz emphasized his pro-labor record and promised to provide firefighters with the resources they need.
Vance, representing a “new kind of Republican party,” assured continued support for first responders and their rights.
The IAFF’s endorsement process is ongoing, with additional town halls planned as part of their thorough and transparent approach.
