Governor Kathy Hochul has received the backing of three major unions in New York City as she advances her re-election campaign. This development was reported to the Commercial Observer. The three organisations, the New York City and Vicinity District Council of Carpenters (NYCDCC), District Council 9 of the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades, and Local 3 of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), have all endorsed Democrat Hochul. She is seeking a second full term.
Collectively, these three unions represent approximately 61,000 members working in skilled trades. Hochul is currently running against Republican Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman. A recent Marist poll of voters showed that 53 per cent favoured Hochul, while 42 per cent supported Blakeman.
Union Endorsement as a Sign of Appreciation
Christopher Erikson, Business Manager of IBEW Local 3, commented in a statement. He said that Governor Hochul had demonstrated a strong commitment to organised labour by investing in infrastructure, supporting prevailing wage standards, and creating pathways to well-paid union jobs. Erikson emphasised that Hochul's leadership recognised the crucial role skilled electrical workers play in building and maintaining New York's economy.
IBEW Local 3 represents electricians, technicians, and other electrical installers throughout the greater New York area. The NYCDCC includes general contractors and other industrial workers in the region, while District Council 9 represents tradesmen such as painters, decorators, and glaziers in New York.
Significance of the Labour Movement for New York
The Blakeman campaign did not immediately respond to a request for comment. It is unclear what level of support he has received from organised labour. In her own statement, Hochul stressed that working people built the Empire State. She highlighted that union members are the backbone of the economy and the foundation of communities. It is the responsibility of leaders to treat them accordingly.
Already in September, Hochul had secured the endorsement of the New York State Building & Construction Trades Council, led by Gary LaBarbera, one of the largest labour organisations in the state. The general elections are scheduled for 3 November.
