The New Jersey State Association of Pipe Trades has endorsed Democrat Rebecca Bennett for Congress in one of the nation’s most closely watched congressional races.
The 12,000-member labor organization was part of a coalition of building trades unions that endorsed Kean in his 2024 re-election campaign in New Jersey’s 7th, although the Pipe Trades didn’t take sides on their own.
The Pipe Trades represents nine United Association locals across New Jersey. The organization cited Bennett’s support for collective bargaining, apprenticeship programs, and union jobs in announcing its endorsement.
“The Pipe Trades are looking to endorse leaders who are willing to fight for our values and have the tough conversations, and we don’t base our support on politics or party affiliation,” said Mike Tranberg, the group’s president.
Tranberg said the union also wants a voice in pursuing an “all of the above” energy policy to reduce utility costs.
Bennett, a former Navy helicopter pilot, said she visited the Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 9 training facility and wants to expand opportunities for veterans to enter the building trades.
“I look forward to working together to make sure that we can connect veterans with these important programs, stand up for collective bargaining, and ensure that New Jersey families can break into the middle class with a good union job,” Bennett said.
The Pipe Trades backed Democrat Mikie Sherrill for governor in 2025.