New progressive coalition to aggressively support slate in run-up to Feb. 24 election
CHICAGO (January 22, 2015) -- United Working Families announced its endorsement of mayoral candidate and Cook County Commissioner Jesus “Chuy” Garcia and 16 aldermanic candidates at a press conference outside of City Hall on Thursday morning, citing the slate’s commitment to progressive values and to standing up for the interests of working people.
United Working Families (UWF), the independent political organization recently formed by the Chicago Teachers Union, SEIU Healthcare, Action Now and Grassroots Illinois Action, rolled out the endorsements just a month before the February 24 municipal election.
Endorsed candidates include Progressive Caucus Incumbents: Ald. Leslie Hairston (5), Ald. Roderick Sawyer (6), Ald. Toni Foulkes (16), Ald. Ricardo Munoz (22), Ald. Scott Waguespack (32), Ald. Nick Sposato (38) and Ald. John Arena (45). The slate also includes challengers Tara Baldridge (8), Sue Garza (10), Rafael Yanez (15), David Moore (17), Juanita Irizarry (26), Zerlina Smith (29), Tim Meegan (33), Carlos Rosa (35) and Tara Stamps (37).
“Our task is to reelect the Progressive Caucus aldermen, who have fought fearlessly for public schools, safer streets and increased accountability in government and at the same time we will grow their ranks by electing a new generation of leaders who will stand up for Chicago’s working families,” said UWF Executive Director Kristen Crowell.
"I'm honored to accept the endorsement of United Working Families today. United Working Families is an example of the thirst for change in Chicago that is at the heart of my candidacy," said Garcia.
Endorsed candidates will receive “ground game,” strategic, financial and communications support and training, Crowell said.
Candidates earned the UWF endorsement by showing their viability and either a track record or commitment to a progressive policy agenda.
