As first reported by Fox News Digital, Cooke recently touted an endorsement from AFSCME, a major public-sector union that has also been involved in efforts opposing crackdowns on commercial driver’s licenses for illegal immigrants. According to the report, AFSCME published guidance for affiliates on how to navigate around restrictions preventing individuals without legal status from obtaining CDLs and has pushed back against enforcement efforts targeting illegal immigrant truck drivers.
The issue has drawn increased scrutiny following a number of instances across the country, including a fatal crash in Indiana earlier this year. Federal officials say an illegal immigrant from Kyrgyzstan who entered the United States through the Biden administration’s CBP One parole program was operating a semi-truck when he failed to brake for traffic, crossed into oncoming lanes, and crashed into a van carrying Amish passengers. Four people were killed. The driver had been issued a commercial driver’s license by Pennsylvania, fueling concerns about policies that allow individuals without permanent legal status to operate large commercial vehicles on American highways.
That hasn’t stopped Cooke, who is running in one of the nation’s most closely-watched House races, from proudly adding the union’s backing to her growing list of endorsements.
For voters in western Wisconsin, the endorsement raises questions about where Cooke stands on immigration and workforce issues. While Democrats frequently argue that labor shortages justify expanding opportunities for undocumented workers, critics contend that such policies undermine the rule of law and put American workers at a disadvantage.
The issue is particularly relevant in Wisconsin, where commercial trucking plays a vital role in the state’s economy. CDL holders are responsible for operating large commercial vehicles, and federal law requires drivers to meet specific licensing and identification requirements.
Cooke’s campaign has framed her labor endorsements as evidence of her support for working families. But accepting support from a union actively pushing to weaken restrictions on commercial driver’s licenses for those in the country illegally may leave some Wisconsin voters wondering exactly whose interests are being prioritized.
At a time when immigration remains one of the top concerns for voters nationwide, Cooke’s embrace of the endorsement is likely to provide Republicans with another opportunity to tie Democrats to policies that many Americans believe put politics ahead of public safety and legal immigration.
