AFSCME union endorses Hale in 5th District Democratic primary
Publication:Herald Bulletin
ANDERSON — Democrat Christina Hale has been endorsed by the union representing workers in Anderson and Madison County for the party’s 5th Congressional District nomination.
The 5th District seat is being contested in both the Republican and Democratic parties’ primaries following the announcement last year that incumbent Republican Susan Brooks would not be seeking reelection.
Hale is one of five Democrats seeking the nomination, along with 2018 candidate Dee Thornton, Jennifer Christie, Andy Jacobs and Ralph Spelberg.
The American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Council 692 announced its endorsement of Hale on Tuesday.
“The time is right for us to have a candidate with a heart for labor and working families across the country,” Steve Quick, president of Local 725 and International vice president, said in a press release.
AFSCME backed Hale in 2016 as part of Democrat John Gregg’s ticket for governor.
“We believe she is a strong candidate and is the right choice for the 5th District,” Quick said.
Ron Richmond, AFSCME Council 692 political director, said the country needs leaders in government who understand the important role workers play in rebuilding our state’s working class.
“These workers are on the front lines of an unprecedented public health crisis, and we must ensure they have adequate funding and resources to do their jobs,” Hale said in announcing the endorsement. “I’m running for Congress because I’ve spent my career fighting for Hoosier workers and families, and I will continue doing just that when I’m elected.”