LA CROSSE — The Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Wisconsin State Council announced the endorsement of Becca Cooke at an ice cream social with the candidate on Wednesday afternoon. Cooke is running for the 3rd Congressional District seat.
“I’ve had the opportunity to meet Becca 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.”
“I am beyond honored to receive SEIU’s endorsement — to fight for and represent hard working healthcare, hospitality and service workers throughout the 3rd Congressional District,” Cooke said. “I was proud to rally with Gundersen workers back in January for better wages and will be a consistent ally to ensure all working families have the quality of life they deserve.”
The SEIU Wisconsin State Council coordinates politics for the state’s SEIU locals, SEIU Healthcare Wisconsin, SEIU Local 152, and SEIU Local 1. SEIU is the nation’s fastest growing union uniting 2 million workers in the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. SEIU’s membership is among the most diverse in the labor movement, bringing together public sector, property services and health care workers.