Iron Workers backs Bennett in NJ-7

Iron Workers Local 11 has endorsed Democrat Rebecca Bennett for Congress in New Jersey’s 7th district, backing her as part of a coalition that supported Rep. Tom Kean Jr. (R-Westfield) two years ago.

The New Jersey State Building & Construction Trades Council endorsed Kean in 2024, with Local 11 among the council’s affiliated unions.   This year, the statewide building trades organization declined to endorse in the 7th district race.

Local 11 is now breaking for Bennett, a former Navy helicopter pilot who is challenging Kean as he seeks a third term.

“Union labor built New Jersey and union labor will be the key to giving us an advantage in a 21st Century economy while ensuring that families can live the American Dream,” Bennett said. “I am honored to have the support of the Iron Workers Local 11 in this race. Together, we’ll fight to protect bargaining rights, expand skilled apprenticeship opportunities, and build the middle class.”

The endorsement is another labor pickup for Bennett in the campaign’s closing weeks. AFSCME Council 63 endorsed her this week, while SMART-TD, CWA Local 1036 and other unions have also lined up behind the Democratic challenger.

John E. Wade Jr., Local 11’s financial secretary-treasurer and business manager, cited Bennett’s military and private-sector experience and her support for infrastructure spending and union jobs.

“Rebecca Bennett has dedicated her life to service, first as a Navy helicopter pilot and Air National Guard officer, and later as a leader in the healthcare sector,” Wade said. “She has demonstrated the leadership, integrity, and commitment to public service that working families deserve in Congress.”

Wade said Local 11 members work on bridges, transit systems, energy projects and commercial developments across New Jersey.

“We support Rebecca because she understands the importance of investing in infrastructure, creating good-paying union jobs, and strengthening the middle class,” he said. “Those investments not only grow our economy, they create career opportunities for the next generation of skilled trades workers.”

Kean made significant inroads with building trades unions during his 2024 re-election campaign, winning endorsements from the statewide building trades council, Operating Engineers Local 825 and IBEW Local 102, among others.

“Rebecca Bennett has the experience and determination to deliver results for working families, veterans, and union members,” Wade said. “We are proud to stand with her and encourage the voters of New Jersey’s 7th congressional district to send her to Congress.”