PEF endorses Bill de Blasio for NYC mayor

ALBANY, NY (09/25/2013)(readMedia)-- The New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) announced today its endorsement for Democrat Bill de Blasio for mayor of New York City.

"There are a number of reasons why Bill de Blasio is the best choice for mayor of America's largest city," said PEF President Susan Kent. "Mr. de Blasio has a proven record to stand up for labor with his advocacy for SUNY Downstate Medical Center to remain a public hospital. He has a long history of supporting public employees and the services they provide. PEF also has witnessed de Blasio's progressive change for programs such as universal prekindergarten, an investment in the city's future."

Union leaders cited de Blasio's accomplishments as Public Advocate, the city's second-highest elected office. De Blasio dealt with issues such as reforming programs to minimize bureaucracy to better serve middle and working class families. He fought for the release of medical data concerning World Trade Center victims and survivors, and was an influential factor in the passage of the Gender-Based Discrimination Protection Law and the Domestic Partner Recognition Law.

"With his experience stretching from the U.S Department of Housing and Urban Development to being a City Council member representing diverse Brooklyn neighborhoods, de Blasio has the experience and vision to be a great mayor," Kent said. "PEF is pleased to endorse a candidate with his qualifications and respect for the working man."

PEF represents approximately 56,000 professional, scientific and technical employees of New York state and other public and private employees. The union represents nearly 10,000 members in the NYC area