The deputies chose the Teamsters to gain leverage in negotiations regarding their professional conditions and community safety operations. Austin Schuller, a deputy and new member of the local branch, described the move as a necessary step to ensure their perspectives are represented during critical departmental decision-making. By joining the union, these officers align themselves with a national network of over 26,000 public safety workers.

James Heeren, a business agent for Local 120, emphasized that the organization is prepared to pursue a contract that reflects the deputies' priorities. Teamsters Local 120 currently represents approximately 15,000 workers across five states, including Minnesota, Iowa, and both Dakotas. The union transition aims to provide the Yankton County force with the institutional backing of a large-scale labor entity to advocate for fairness and respect on the job.