Investigation Called into Uline's Immigration Practices Amid Political Donations

Uline, an office supply company owned by Liz and Richard Uihlein, is a significant financial supporter of the Republican Party, particularly the MAGA faction. The Uihleins contributed $1 million in the first half of 2025 to the Wisconsin Federation of College Republicans, which has endorsed Tom Tiffany for the Republican gubernatorial nomination. This political context has intensified scrutiny of the company's labor practices, particularly in light of recent allegations regarding its immigration policies.

The Guardian

Milwaukee city council member JoCasta Zamarripa has called for an investigation into Uline's immigration practices, specifically its use of a "shuttle program." This program reportedly involved bringing workers from Mexico to staff Uline's warehouses in Wisconsin, Florida, and Pennsylvania under visas intended for training purposes, rather than for regular employment. Zamarripa's concerns were amplified by a Guardian investigation that highlighted the abrupt cessation of this program in late 2024, following initial reports of its existence.

The Guardian

Zamarripa, who is campaigning for the Democratic nomination for Wisconsin secretary of state, emphasized the need for transparency and accountability, stating, “Billionaires fund the crackdown, then exploit the very people targeted by it – because they think money shields them from consequences.” She has urged state officials to investigate potential legal violations related to Uline's labor practices.

The Guardian

The Guardian's investigation included testimonies from workers involved in the shuttle program. One worker, Christian Valenzuela, described his experience, noting that Mexican employees were often subjected to dangerous and exhausting working conditions. He stated, “We were just going to work... They always gave us more work, because we were stronger workers.” This sentiment reflects broader concerns about the treatment of immigrant laborers within Uline's operations.

The Guardian

Uline has not publicly commented on Zamarripa's allegations or the specifics of the shuttle program. The company's silence has raised questions about its labor practices and the potential implications for its business model, which generates approximately $8 billion in annual revenue and employs around 9,000 individuals.

The Guardian

Zamarripa's call for an investigation has drawn attention to the intersection of corporate practices and political donations. Critics argue that the Uihleins' financial support for Republican candidates may shield Uline from scrutiny regarding its labor practices. Zamarripa's statements highlight a growing concern among some political figures about the accountability of wealthy donors and their influence on labor policies.

The Guardian

As the primary election for Wisconsin secretary of state approaches in August, the outcome of Zamarripa's call for an investigation may influence public perception of Uline and its owners. The political ramifications of this situation could extend beyond state lines, potentially affecting broader discussions about labor rights and corporate accountability in the United States.

The Guardian

• “Billionaires fund the crackdown, then exploit the very people targeted by it –because they think money shields them from consequences,” — JoCasta Zamarripa, Milwaukee City Council Member

The Guardian

• “They always gave us more work, because we were stronger workers.” — Christian Valenzuela, Former Shuttle Program Worker

The Guardian