PRESS RELEASE:

ALBANY, NY (08/16/2010)(readMedia)-- Today, the 2 ½ million member New York State AFL-CIO announced the endorsement of U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand.

The endorsement process took place at the State Labor Federation's biennial political convention, held at the Desmond Hotel in Albany, New York. More than 400 delegates, representing local unions, labor councils and area labor federations throughout the state, were in attendance.

New York State AFL-CIO President Denis Hughes stated, "I am proud to announce the New York State AFL-CIO's endorsement of Senator Gillibrand. Senator Gillibrand has proven time and time again to be a true champion for the cause of working people. From investing in infrastructure and taking on the credit card companies to protect consumers to creating transparency in Washington and helping pass FMAP legislation which is estimated to save more than 200,000 jobs in our state, working people can be confident that Senator Gillibrand will continue to fight on their behalf in Washington. In fact, Senator Gillibrand is the lead sponsor of Senate legislation to help our September 11th heroes."

"Particularly during a time of great economic distress, working men and women need a Senator who intuitively understands the very real challenges they face in their daily lives. Whether its health care reform, FMAP legislation which is estimated to save more than 200,000 jobs in our state, or introducing legislation for our September 11th heroes, working people can be confident that Senator Gillibrand will continue to fight on their behalf in Washington.

"With a 93% voting record, her leadership and dedication to improving the everyday lives of working men and women is invaluable", said Hughes.

Senator Gillibrand said, "Creating fairness in our economy and good-paying jobs is my number one priority. For too long working people have gotten the short end of the American economy and it is time for that changes. I am honored to have the endorsement of the 2.5 million members of the AFL-CIO and I am committed to fighting with them each and every day to ensure a stronger economy for all of us and our families."

The New York State AFL-CIO will coordinate a grassroots campaign to educate members on labor's position in these races. The campaign will consist of member mailings, worksite flyers, phone bank operations and a "labor-to-neighbor" program, where union members visit other members in the area to discuss a particular race.

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