Union endorsements start rolling in for mayor's race

As the Philadelphia mayor's race gains some momentum, the endorsements are starting to come in.

SEPTA's largest union, Transport Workers Union Local 234, announced Thursday it has endorsed state Sen. Anthony H. Williams for mayor.

"Throughout his career Tony Williams has dedicated himself to fighting for the good of all Philadelphians," Willie Brown, TWU Local 234 president, said in a statement. "He's a consensus builder and problem solver with the skills that will be required of the next mayor to meet the challenges of this city."

In his news release Brown went on to say that Williams has helped negotiate contracts between SEPTA and TWU. Local 234 represents more than 5,000 bus drivers, subway and trolley operators, and maintenance workers.

"Williams understands the critical role transit workers play in keeping the city's economy moving," the Local 234 news release said.

Local 234 endorsed Dwight Evans in the last mayoral race go-around that Mayor Nutter won.

Williams has also received an endorsement from the local carpenters' union.

The local hospital union, AFSCME's District 1199C, endorsed now-former Councilman Jim Kenney. Kenney launched his mayoral campaign Wednesday.

The most politically powerful union, the electrician's IBEW Local 98, has not yet issued an endorsement. Its leader, John Dougherty, previously called Kenney a "dark horse" candidate.

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