Union Ironworker to Congress? Brian Poindexter’s Mission to Reward Work over Wealth

“Washington needs more people who have worn a tool belt and fewer who take orders from donors.” Today on the America’s Work Force Union Podcast, we’re joined by Brian Poindexter, a member of Ironworkers Local 17 and a five-term Brook Park City Councilman currently running for Congress in Ohio’s 7th District. Poindexter shares his "old-school" approach to a modern campaign, focusing on door-knocking and direct voter contact over expensive media scripts. We dive into the core of his platform: wages, healthcare and retirement security—issues that impact every working family regardless of party registration. Key highlights from this episode include: The Path to the Middle Class: How a union apprenticeship at age 27 changed Poindexter's life and why he wants to expand that ladder for all workers. A Record of Action: His work in Brook Park opposing so-called “Right-to-Work” and using technology to increase civic transparency. The 7th District Map: Why Poindexter believes political operatives are wrong about Ohio’s 7th and how a pro-worker message can win in suburban and rural communities alike. Major Endorsements: The momentum behind his campaign, including support from the Ohio AFL-CIO, UAW, IAM, Sen. Bernie Sanders and more. The Brook Park Stadium: His perspective on the economic impact and the thousands of union construction jobs tied to the project. Whether you're in the trades or want a government that prioritizes work over wealth, this conversation is a masterclass in grassroots labor politics. Learn more at: https://poindexterforcongress.com/