Pat Burke Earns Support of Nearly Every WNY Labor Group
Assembly candidate Patrick Burke (D/WFP/ REF-Buffalo) has received strong support from major labor unions across Western New York, including those representing workers in the construction, health care, and education sectors. Burke has received these endorsements in response to his vision for economic growth for the region as well as his experience standing on the picket line with the Communications Workers of America and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers when they were on strike. Burke has written letters to the CEOs of major corporations on behalf of workers fighting for a better deal for themselves and their families. Most notable, he drafted legislation entitled the “Invest in Erie, Invest in America Act” a bill that would promote businesses right here in Erie County.
“At a time when union membership has reached an all-time low, it is clear that the all-out assault to break up, water down, and attack unions is not going away anytime soon. I understand how important organized labor is to not only the growth of the America middle but also our democracy. If elected to the New York State Assembly I will continue to fight on behalf of workers as I have done in my tenure as an Erie County Legislator” Burke said.
Burke will fight for proposals like his “Invest in Erie” that will promote and encourage local businesses in Western New York, as well as American businesses to help create jobs for middle class families. Additionally, Burke will advocate to expand training programs in high-growth industries to compete in a 21st century economy and help job seekers have the skillset needed to enter workforce. He will also build on his efforts to combat the zombie homes crisis by forcing banks to take responsibility and providing much needed relief for families with high property taxes.
“Pat doesn't wait for a problem to occur to pick up the phone,” said John J Mudie President of Communications Workers of America Local 1122. “He has been proactive in his outreach and has the courage to stand up for working people in Western New York. Burke is knowledgeable of the issues and challenges families face daily. We are confident in Pats ability to represent all of his constituents."
Burke wants to further strengthen the local economy by investing in infrastructure, including improving water quality for residents, creating job-training programs, providing teachers with the resources they need in the classroom and bringing more high-tech manufacturing jobs to the region.
“We are standing with Pat because he has a record of standing with teachers and labor,” said Joe Cantafio President of the West Seneca Teacher Association and member of NYSUT Board of Directors. “We need a proven fighter in Albany to stand up to those that want to take opportunities away from our students and deprive teachers of the resources they need to teach ALL students. With the attacks on the working people and public education, we need someone who has stood with us from the beginning, not just when asking for our votes. There is simply too much at stake.”
The unions endorsing Burke include: 1199 SEIU, AFSCME, AFL-CIO, Buffalo Teachers Federation, CSEA, CWA, NYSUT, PEF, West Seneca Teachers Association, UAW Region 9, UFCW, United Brotherhood of Carpenters, Building and Construction Trades Council of Buffalo New York and Vicinity, United University Professionals, Boilermakers Local Lodge No. 7, and Plasterers Local 9.