32BJ SEIU, the largest property services union in the country, with 13,000 members in New Jersey, will again be endorsing incumbent Democratic Governor Phil Murphy. This decision comes after a virtual town hall with the Governor and over 300 32BJ members. During the event, members had the opportunity to ask questions about critical issues that matter to working people—including pandemic response, economic development, transportation, immigrant and civil rights, his commitment to stand with Newark airport workers in their fight for justice, the establishment of a civilian complaint review board, among others.

32BJ SEIU Vice President and New Jersey State Director Kevin Brown made the announcement today on behalf of the union’s members. “Since 2016, we have worked closely with Governor Murphy in instituting important worker protections and progressive policy change. He understands that good jobs build strong communities and the economy.  The minimum wage increase, mandating of paid sick time for workers and ensuring equal pay for equal work are critically important to 32BJ members and all working families in New Jersey,” said Brown.

“Phil Murphy understands the plight of airport workers like me who are struggling to survive on poverty wages,” said Newark Airport cabin cleaner, Andre Cooper. “He has supported our efforts and stood with us as we continue our fight to get healthcare. I know he will have my back again in the future.  That’s why I will be supporting Phil Murphy for Governor of New Jersey.”

Other capstone accomplishments of the Murphy Administration that are core to the Union include the Economic Development Act of 2020, minimum wage raise to $15/hour, the legalization and decriminalization of marijuana, the expansion of driver’s licenses to all regardless of immigration status.

“Governor Murphy understands the vital role unions play in helping to protect and uplift working families” Brown continued, “He has been a champion for the issues and causes of countless New Jersey families, who have been able to move into the middle class by walking through the union door. We need to continue working towards uplifting the role of labor in our fight to getting us out of the pandemic, and rebuilding our economy.”

With the union’s endorsement comes a commitment of significant resources to help a candidate win, including member volunteers and financial support.  32BJ’s New Jersey District includes more than 13,000 members, many of whom have volunteered to canvass and help get out the vote in key national, state and local elections.

With 175,000 members in 11 states, including more than 13,000 in New Jersey–32BJ SEIU is the largest property services union in the country.