News from New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF)

For more information contact: Darcy Wells, (518) 785-1900 Ext. 277 or (518) 859-1274

PEF Endorses Barack Obama for President

ALBANY, NY (07/24/2008; 1615)(readMedia)-- The New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF), the state's largest white-collar union and second-largest state-employee union, today announced its support of Barack Obama to become the next president of the United States.

The PEF Executive Board voted overwhelmingly to endorse Obama.

Barack Obama has been a strong supporter of labor and was previously endorsed by PEF's international affiliates, the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) and the Service Employees International Union (SEIU).

"We are confident Barack Obama will be a strong advocate for the hard-working men and women of this country," said PEF President Ken Brynien.

"As a senator, Obama has demonstrated his support for a more open and accountable government, working families and civil rights, all issues important to our members.

"Sen. Obama has consistently supported federal programs that provide critical funding to New York state. These federal funds ensure our members can continue to provide the vital services that the citizens of New York rely on.

"Our endorsement gives Barack Obama's campaign access to a network of thousands of seasoned volunteers across the state of New York who will work hard to get him elected," Brynien said.

"Throughout the presidential primaries and in the last presidential election we were able to send volunteers to Texas, Wisconsin, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New Hampshire. We look forward to working for Barack Obama to bring much needed change to Washington," Brynien added.

PEF is the state's second-largest state-employee union, representing 59,000 professional, scientific and technical employees.

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