The Laborers’ International Union of North America (LIUNA), which has 25,000 members in New Jersey, “enthusiastically endorses” Hoboken Mayor Ravi Bhalla for re-election.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“The New Jersey Laborers Union enthusiastically endorses Ravi Bhalla for mayor. We have seen first-hand how his leadership and commitment to the residents of Hoboken have made a difference,” LIUNA International Vice President and Eastern Regional Manager Ray Pacino said in a statement.
“From protecting vulnerable residents and workers from COVID-19, supporting local business, and upgrading and modernizing Hoboken’s aging infrastructure, Ravi has shown that local government matters and experience and the ability to find practical solutions to the challenges facing Hoboken matters even more.”
Bhalla, seeking a second term in November, is currently running unopposed and raised $43,168 in the first quarter of 2021, with about $114,036 cash on hand, according to an April 15th report filed with the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission.
LIUNA also backed Bhalla’s 2017 mayoral bid, as did the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 825.
The incumbent has also received the endorsements of two different Latino groups and 32BJ SEIU during this election cycle.
“I am honored to be recognized by the New Jersey Laborers and look forward to continuing our partnership with its hard-working members to improve Hoboken’s infrastructure. As mayor, I will continue to stand up for working people,” Bhalla said.
The November 2nd municipal elections in the Mile Square City are non-partisan and in addition to the mayor’s seat, voters will select their three at-large representatives on the city council.
Never forget the “Hoboken 26”, public employee lay-offs and forced retirements in May 2020. City Union members pushed to the side during COVID. What about their families, children? And more Union employees Demoted, suffering with severe pay cuts. All while City departments ask for dozens of new hires and Directors got raises already. Does the City Council care? Hoboken in shame. Worst ever. $27.2 million in COVID funding. Could have kept employees working from home like others still do. Union support? Not from City employees.