Brian Bryant, International President of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union), addressed thousands of labor, community, and pro-democracy activists at the ‘No Kings’ rally in Savannah, Georgia on March 28. The event was part of a broader movement calling for solidarity, economic justice, and increased political engagement among working people.
The rally coincided with the Machinists Non-Partisan Political League (MNPL) Conference, where IAM Union members gathered to mobilize 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.
Bryant highlighted IAM’s presence in Georgia and its history dating back to its founding by railroad machinists in Atlanta in 1888. 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 spoke about economic challenges facing workers today: “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,” said Bryant. “That’s not an accident—it’s the result of policies written by corporate CEOs for corporate CEOs, at the expense of the people who actually build this country.”
Bryant connected these issues to broader democratic principles: “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. So instead of changing their ideas, they’re trying to change the rules. That’s not democracy—that’s fear of the people.”
He encouraged those present to take action beyond voting: “Voting is critical—but voting alone is not enough,” said Bryant. “Knock on doors. Make phone calls. Talk to your neighbors and co-workers. And yes—run for office yourself. Because if working people aren’t at the table, we’re on the menu.” He concluded by urging continued solidarity among unions: “If you see workers on strike—join them on the picket line… Solidarity isn’t just a word—it’s an action.”
