District 1199J, the national union of hospital and health care employees, is backing Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop for governor, citing “a proven track record of not just being a vocal advocate for organized labor.”
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“Steven Fulop has a proven track record of not just being a vocal advocate for organized labor, but of actually getting the job done for working families by treating employees with dignity and respect, increasing wages and benefits and always respecting collective bargaining rights,” District 1199J President Susan Cleary said in a statement.
“Our next governor should be someone with a dynamic vision for the future of New Jersey, and I know that we have that candidate in Mayor Steven Fulop.”
The union represents more than 10,000 members at nearly 70 healthcare facilities, correctional institutions, public agencies and residential reentry centers throughout the state, including dietary and nurse’s aides, nurses, technicians and technologists, housekeepers, social workers, therapists, teachers, doctors, psychologists, pharmacists, clerical workers, and home care aides, counselors and parks workers.
The endorsement from District 1199J continues an early trend of labor endorsements, which includes endorsements by the Amalgamated Transit Workers Union International and New Jersey Council as well as four Teamsters locals.
“I’m grateful to Susan Cleary, her leadership team and every member of District 1199J for supporting our campaign to move New Jersey forward,” added Fulop.
“ … As Governor I will build on the record I’ve established in Jersey City of being an advocate and an ally for organized labor, while also collaboratively seeking out new ideas, approaches and technologies that can improve outcomes for everyone.”
The Fulop campaign announced the endorsement of Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora, along with the mayors of Lambertville and Garwood last week.
This came after announcing $2.2 million raised in his gubernatorial account, compiling over $13 million in the second quarter including matching funds and super PACs.
As the lone declared candidate in the race for now, Fulop secured the endorsements of the Hudson and Warren County Democrats.
Among other early supporters are Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small, who is serving as the campaign’s co-chair, Westfield Mayor Shelley Brindle, Morristown Mayor Tim Dougherty, South Orange Mayor Sheena Collum, and Clinton Mayor Janice Kovach.
