UNITE HERE!

For Immediate Release
December 5, 2007
Contact: Amanda Cooper 917-533-4050

Update from UNITE HERE on Presidential Endorsement Process

(Los Angeles, CA) – UNITE HERE has made no endorsement in the Presidential race at this time. The union, including Culinary Local 226 in Nevada, plans to announce an endorsement in early January, 2008.

The Executive Committee of the International Union UNITE HERE has resolved to authorize the Chicago and Midwest Regional Joint Board to support its members’ efforts on behalf of the Presidential campaign of Senator John Edwards. That affiliate will commit staff, volunteers and financial resources to the Senator’s campaign in Iowa starting immediately as election laws allow. It will sign on to a participation agreement already in effect in that state which includes affiliates of several other unions, including SEIU, the Carpenters, the Steelworkers and others.

“Our members are emphatic in their support for Senator Edwards, and anxious to get involved,” explains Noel Beasley, Manager of the Chicago and Midwest Regional Joint Board. “We appreciate the Executive Committee’s willingness to be flexible and democratic in this process. It is giving our members the opportunity to get involved with an exciting and vibrant campaign at the moment where our support can make the most impact. We look forward to making a big difference for Senator Edwards in Iowa.”

UNITE HERE is a labor union representing 450,000 workers in the hotel, restaurant, gaming, laundry, garment and apparel industries. For more information, please contact Amanda Cooper at 917-533-4050.
# # #