AFL-CIO makes early endorsements for Democratic lawmakers

The 2.5 million-member New York State AFL-CIO is announcing the early endorsements of Senators Toby Ann Stavisky and Gustavo Rivera as well as Assemblymen Harry Bronson and Victor Pichardo for re-election. The federation also announced the early endorsement of Jamaal Bailey in the Senate seat being vacated by Ruth Hassell-Thompson who is going to work for the Cuomo Administration.

Bailey, a Bronx native, attended the University at Albany, earned a law degree from the City University of New York and interned in the state Assembly. He serves as Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie’s community relations director.

“All of these candidates understand the priorities of the 2.5 million hardworking men and women of the NYS AFL-CIO,” said President Mario Cilento. “They are committed to fighting hard for issues important to middle class families.”

The New York State AFL-CIO is a federation of 3,000 affiliated public sector, private sector and building trades unions across the state.

The Democratic primaries are scheduled for September 13.

“With our early endorsements in place, we can now begin a grassroots campaign to get our members to the polls to ensure our endorsed candidates, and in turn an agenda that prioritizes the creation of solid middle class jobs and supports the vital public services all New Yorkers depend on, are successful,” Cilento said.