Biden lands food workers' endorsement
March 20, 2020
The 1.3-million member United Food and Commercial Workers union endorsed Joe Biden today, giving the former vice president another boost as he seeks to finish off the candidacy of Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.).
The union’s endorsement came after Biden this week swept primaries in Arizona, Florida and Illinois. In a written statement to POLITICO, UFCW President Marc Perrone said Biden is best equipped to help guide vulnerable service workers through the coronavirus crisis.
“At a time when UFCW members in healthcare, food retail, packing, and processing are on the front lines of the coronavirus outbreak, the vice president has again stood by our side by calling for paid leave and designating these brave workers as first responders,” Perrone said.
On Thursday Biden encouraged states to classify grocery store workers as emergency personnel, making them eligible for certain benefits like free child care.
UFCW adds to a growing list of union endorsements for Biden, including the National Education Association, the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, and the International Association of Fire Fighters. Initially reluctant to endorse any candidate in the crowded primary, unions have lately been rallying around Biden as he gains a commanding delegate lead.
“In good times, UFCW workers are critical to keeping our families well-fed and well-supplied,“ Biden said in a written statement. “Their employers and our entire country should rally around these workers and ensure they receive the benefits and protections they need.“
Biden was one of several candidates to show up at UFCW picket lines in Boston last year to support striking Stop & Shop workers.
Source: https://www.politico.com/
