Laborers endorse Harrison for Congress

The Laborers’ International Union of North America (LIUNA) today announced their endorsement of Brigid Callahan Harrison for Congress, giving her the backing of a powerful and savvy union whose backing typically comes with money, votes and critical boots on the ground for canvassing – if there is any of that before the July primary election.

In announcing his pick of Harrison for the Democratic nomination in New Jersey’s 2nd district, Raymond M. Pocino, the vice president and eastern regional manager of LIUNA, slammed Van Drew’s decision to switch parties.

“Public service is about putting the public before the personal, and by switching political parties, Jeff Van Drew showed the world that he is more interested in serving himself than the hard-working people of South Jersey,” said Pocino, one of New Jersey’s most influential labor leaders.

Pocino praised Harrison as a political science professor and not a career political, different than Van Drew’s nearly 30 years in public office.

“I still don’t think he understands the hardships families face to earn a living, pay for healthcare, and try to create a better life for their children and themselves,” Pocino said.

The Laborers represents 25,000 construction workers across New Jersey.

“Brigid Harrison offers people hope for what Congress can do if we send thoughtful, pragmatic, and selfless people to represent us in Washington,” said Pocino. “I think she represents a stark contrast to Jeff Van Drew.”