Brian Bryant, International President of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union), spoke on March 28 at the ‘No Kings’ rally in Savannah, Georgia. The event brought together thousands of labor, community, and pro-democracy activists to call for solidarity, economic justice, and increased political participation from working people across the United States.
The rally coincided with the Machinists Non-Partisan Political League (MNPL) Conference, where IAM Union members focused on organizing union voters ahead of the 2026 elections. The ‘No Kings’ coalition includes hundreds of community groups such as the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), American Federation of Teachers (AFT), Indivisible, MoveOn, Public Citizen, Service Employees International Union (SEIU), and others. Organizers describe it as a movement representing Americans from diverse backgrounds who are united in opposition to authoritarianism and concentrated wealth.
Bryant addressed both historical context and current challenges facing working families. He said: “Because this fight—this moment—this movement—should be everybody’s fight. We did not elect a dictator. We did not elect a king. And we are not going to let Donald Trump run this country like it’s his own personal business. He must follow the Constitution and the rule of law—just like every president before him.”
He also reflected on IAM’s roots in Georgia: “138 years later, we are still standing up and saying the same thing,” Bryant said. “Working people deserve dignity. We deserve respect. And we will not stay silent.”
Addressing economic concerns, Bryant stated: “We’re living in the richest country in the history of the world, yet working people are being told to do more with less while billionaires keep getting richer,” adding that these conditions result from policies favoring corporate leaders over workers.
Bryant highlighted threats to democracy as well: “Across this country, they are trying to make it harder for working people to vote,” he said. “When working people organize and vote, we win… That’s not democracy—that’s fear of the people.” He encouraged attendees to take action beyond voting by engaging their communities and supporting union efforts.
Concluding his remarks with a call for solidarity among labor organizations—including support for striking or organizing workers—Bryant said: “Solidarity isn’t just a word—it’s an action.”
