The United Public Workers Union announced today it’s backing State Senate President Donna Mercado Kim in the 1st District Congressional race.
UPW is one of the state’s largest unions representing 13,000 civil service workers across the state. They include cafeteria workers, custodians, electricians, correctional officers, licensed nurses and nurses’ aids; refuse collectors, carpenters, mechanics and more.
“We are incredibly proud to support Senator Donna Mercado Kim for congress. For more than 30 years, she’s been a strong advocate for working families and we believe she will continue to do so in Washington D.C.,” said UPW State Director Dayton Nakanelua.
“I am deeply honored to receive the support of the UPW. The union represents many workers who are essential to running city and state government. I came from a working family and I understand the struggles. It’s why I have always fought hard to help better the lives of Hawaii’s hard-working families and I will continue to do so if elected. This vote of confidence from the union is deeply appreciated,” said Sen. Donna Mercado Kim.
It’s the 3rd major endorsement Sen. Kim has received in her bid to represent Hawaii in Washington D.C. She’s also won the support of the 18,000 members of the ILWU and the IBEW Local 2360, which represents 3,000 workers.
Sen. Kim has served Hawaii residents in city and state government for 31 years as a city councilmember, state representative and state senator.