NYS AFL-CIO Announces Endorsement of United States Senator Charles Schumer

ALBANY, NY (08/16/2010)(readMedia)-- Today, the 2 ½ million member New York State AFL-CIO announced the endorsement of U.S. Senator Charles Schumer.

The endorsement process took place at the State Labor Federation's biennial political convention, held at the Desmond Hotel in Albany, New York. More than 400 delegates, representing local unions, labor councils and area labor federations throughout the state, were in attendance.

New York State AFL-CIO President Denis Hughes stated, "I am proud to announce the New York State AFL-CIO's endorsement of Senator Schumer.

"Senator Schumer represents the gold standard of leadership. His unparalleled dedication to the needs and concerns of working men and women is equaled only by his tenacity to get things done.

"Everyone knows that if you want to get important, progressive legislation passed in Washington, Senator Schumer's office is the first stop. His 94% voting record is a testament to his commitment to improving the lives and well-being of all working men and women," said Hughes.

"The labor movement has been, and remains, the best springboard to launch working people into the middle class and beyond. Today, I am proud to receive the endorsement of the New York State Federation of Labor and look forward to once again working on behalf of the millions of workers and families they represent to ensure the needs of the middle class-and those they are struggling to get there-are heard and satisfied," stated Senator Schumer.

The New York State AFL-CIO will coordinate a grassroots campaign to educate members on labor's position in these races. The campaign will consist of member mailings, worksite flyers, phone bank operations and a "labor-to-neighbor" program, where union members visit other members in the area to discuss a particular race.