AFSCME Endorses Terry McAuliffe for Governor

by: Bryan

Mon Mar 30, 2009 at 12:22:45 PM EDT

Earlier today Terry McAuliffe's campaign announced that Terry had been endorsed by the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), the largest union in the AFL-CIO. According to several people I have spoken to, Terry has developed good relationships with many high level people in the labor community so it shouldn't be too surprising that AFSCME's leaders are supporting his candidacy. In fact, here's what AFSCME's International President had to say about McAuliffe's campaign.

"In these tough economic times, it is more critical than ever that we work to grow the economy," said AFSCME International President Gerald W. McEntee. "AFSCME members are on the front-line delivering Virginia's public services, and we can see all too clearly that Virginians' needs are greater than ever. Terry McAuliffe understands those needs. He will work to address rising unemployment head-on by creating new jobs and new opportunities throughout the Commonwealth. Not only do we support his vision of a stronger Virginia, we will be proud to work with him to make it happen."

Since Terry will be leading the state government and have some impact on local governments if he's elected governor, I think this is an endorsement that's worth noting. What also makes the timing of this announcement noteworthy is the fact that with EFCA recently being introduced in Congress there has been a lot of discussion about unions and the role they play in standing up for Virginia's workers. I'm therefore pleased to see that Terry is reaching out to labor's leadership.

While this is a big endorsement, it's also important to remember that this is the endorsement of AFSCME's leadership. When you take into consideration the fact that this gubernatorial campaign has seen some locals break from their respective union's international leadership, it will be very interesting to watch what happens in the near future regarding individual members or locals and who they end up supporting in the race.

Bryan :: AFSCME Endorses Terry McAuliffe for Governor