In the race for the next president of the Teamsters union, incumbent James P. Hoffa and challenger Tom Leedham have very little in common except their confidence in their own respective chances. Mr. Leedham, viewed as the heir to former president Ron Carey's campaign against corruption, has conducted a nationwide campaign criticizing Mr. Hoffa's performance in fighting for increased wages and benefits, and against corruption, and promising to do better if elected. Also at issue are organizing efforts, national political alignment, emphasis on the rank-and-file, and even support for proposed oil drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.
See "Challenger Hopes to Upset Teamsters President in Vote", STEVEN GREENHOUSE, The New York Times, October 14, 2001