Tides Turn For Hillary With Seaport Union Endorsement

11.02.2015 | Surge Wire |

Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton accepted an endorsement from the International Longshoremen’s Association during a dinner in her honor Saturday.

The union first announced the endorsement Oct. 27. It marked the second major union endorsement Hillary was able to grab within a week of Vice President Joe Biden announcing he would not run. Up to that point Hillary had struggled to gain traction with the labor movement. Hillary celebrated the endorsement during a union dinner in Charleston, S.C., according to The Associated Press.

Much of the hesitance toward Hillary is believed to have been the result of lingering political issues among union leaders. Biden, up until recently, offered unions a safe alternative. The American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) also decided to back Hillary Oct. 23.

Her opposition to the Keystone Pipeline and her hesitance to oppose the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) caused much of the rift. Her opposition to the Keystone Pipeline upset union members and leaders who look at the project as a good source of jobs. Hillary did eventually come out against TPP after the international trade deal was finalized.

As a result, several national unions decided to delay endorsing anyone. The TPP also resulted in unrest among local unions and members who began endorsing Democratic rival Bernie Sanders. Labor for Bernie has held rallies across the country in support for the Vermont democratic socialist. Former Communications Workers of America President Larry Cohen is helping to lead the group.

Cohen, a long time and influential union leader, announced his support for Sanders in July. Union leadership, however, has noted concern with Bernie’s electability.

Even with the friction between Hillary and unions, she was able to secured some union support early on. The American Federation of Teachers back in July endorse her, as well as the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers back in August.

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