Wilmington, DE - Citing his strong record fighting for working families as New Castle's County Executive, 32BJ SEIU, the largest property service union in the country, today endorsed Chris Coons for Senate. As part of its endorsement, the union is committed to a voter outreach campaign in support of Coons' election.

Chris Coons has been successful in fighting for working people because he takes the time to understand what's going on in their daily lives," said Wayne MacManiman, 32BJ Mid-Atlantic Director. "32BJ members are proud to be supporting a leader with the commitment and drive Chris has shown."

As New Castle County Council President, Coons voted in favor of prevailing wages on county funded projects and is committed to continue working with labor to spur economic recovery and create good jobs in Delaware and nationally.

"Our government shouldn't be in the business of creating jobs that keep Americans living in poverty," MacManiman said. "Coons fights to see that all our tax dollars are put to good use in creating good jobs and a strong economy."

With more than 120,000 members, 32BJ is the fastest growing union the country. Last year 32BJ successfully organized nearly 800 office cleaners in Wilmington and New Castle County, winning a historic area-wide contract with wage increases, health insurance, paid vacation and other benefits. After months of negotiations with area cleaning contractors, cleaners, some of whom currently make as little as $7.25 with no health benefits will see their wages rise to $9.25 by the end of the 2 year contract, and for the first time full-time workers received employer-paid health benefits.

"It's a honor to have the support of SEIU 32BJ, an organization that is deeply committed to improving the lives of working people in Delaware and elsewhere," said Chris Coons, Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate. "I respect the rights of working men and women to organize and believe strongly in creating good jobs that pay living wages."

With more than 120,000 members in eight states and Washington D.C., including Delaware, 32BJ is the largest property service union in the country.

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