Newark—32BJ SEIU, the largest property services union in the country, is supporting Democratic Gubernatorial candidate Phil Murphy. 32BJ SEIU Vice President and New Jersey State Director Kevin Brown made the announcement today on behalf of the union’s nearly 12,000 New Jersey members.
“Phil Murphy understands that good jobs build strong communities and the economy. His plans call for raising the minimum wage, mandating paid sick time for workers and ensuring equal pay for equal work—all issues that are critically important to 32BJ members and all working families in New Jersey,” said Brown. “Murphy’s progressive platform coupled with his commitment to stand with Newark airport workers in their fight for justice, a $15 minimum wage and a union are just a few reasons why 32BJ SEIU is proud to endorse Phil Murphy for Governor of New Jersey.”
The endorsement process, which began several months ago, is rigorous and member driven. It included a recent screening where members had the opportunity to meet gubernatorial candidates and ask them questions about critical issues that matter to working people—including good paying jobs, economic development, affordable housing, transportation, immigrant and civil rights.
“Phil Murphy understands the plight of airport workers like me who are struggling to survive on poverty wages,” said Newark Airport cabin cleaner, Steven Leone. “I was there when he testified before Port Authority Commissioners recently and spoke out against a two-tier wage that is relegating Newark Airport workers as second class citizens. I believe he will have my back again in the future. That’s why I will be supporting Phil Murphy for Governor of New Jersey.”
“Phil Murphy has listened to our members’ concerns and offered viable solutions to help right the wrongs of the current administration,” said Brown. “And he understands the vital role unions play in helping to protect and uplift working families.”
“Whenever New Jersey’s working families needed a champion in the cause for better wages and workplace protections, 32BJ has been there,” said former U.S. Ambassador Phil Murphy. “Countless New Jersey families were able to move into the middle class by walking through the union door, and it is again time we had a governor who understands and respects the role of labor in our fight to rebuild our middle class. I am grateful to the men and women of 32BJ for their support and look forward to working with them to create an economy based on fairness and justice for all working men and women.”
With the union’s endorsement comes a commitment of significant resources to help a candidate win, including member volunteers and financial support. 32BJ’s New Jersey Division includes more than 11,000 members, many of whom have volunteered to canvass and help get out the vote in key national, state and local elections.
*About 32BJ: With 155,000 members in 11 states–including more than 11,000 in New Jersey–32BJ SEIU is the largest property services union in the country.