EAU CLAIRE, Wisc. – This week, Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Wisconsin State Council and International Union of Painters & Allied Trades District Council 82 announced their endorsements of Rebecca Cooke in Wisconsin’s Third Congressional District.
“I’ve had the opportunity to meet Rebecca at several labor events and have been very impressed with her knowledge of state labor and workforce needs,” said Pat Raes, president of SEIU Healthcare Wisconsin. “She has really taken the time to sit down and talk with workers and listen to what kind of change is needed. Seeing that kind of dedication and commitment to workers, even early in her campaign, moved our decision to endorse her.”
Leona Bournes, a member of SEIU Healthcare Wisconsin who works in environmental services at Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center, recalled Cooke’s public support during a contract campaign earlier this year. “I’m grateful that Becca spoke out for us in January and now I’m proud that we are speaking out for her today by endorsing her in the third Congressional district race.”
International Union of Painters & Allied Trades (IUPAT) District Council 82 voted unanimously to endorse Rebecca, citing her commitment to workers and protecting our democracy.
“We have every confidence that you will be a champion of democracy for working people in Wisconsin and the entire country,” said Jeffrey Stark, Secretary-Treasurer of IUPAT District Council 82. “Here at DC82, elections are about protecting the freedom of workers to negotiate with our employers for wages, benefits and working conditions. Elections are also about protecting democracy, leveling the playing field for legitimate employers, and keeping the American Dream within reach of anyone who is willing to do the work to achieve it. We look forward to working with Rebecca’s campaign to win this election and thank her for her willingness to serve.”
“I am beyond honored to receive endorsements from SEIU and Painters as we fight for working families throughout the Third Congressional District,” Cooke said. “Throughout my life, I’ve been proud to rally with workers in the fight for better wages, secure retirement and healthcare benefits, and will be a consistent ally to ensure all working families have the quality of life they deserve.”
