Published: August 18, 2010

Here's a mini-exclusive: 32BJ SEIU, the largest private-sector union in the state, has endorsed Hector Ramirez in his race against Nelson Castro, the incumbent assemblyman in the 86th Assembly District.

In a statement, the union said the endorsement "follows an extensive membership-screening process, in which Ramirez received overwhelming support from members for his commitment to affordable housing, creating good jobs and economic development."

Mike Fishman, 32BJ's president, said in the same release: “Through his work in the community, Hector Ramirez has shown a strong commitment to working people. 32BJ is proud to get behind candidates like Ramirez who will make New York a state that works for working people.”

The union represents security officers, doormen, porters, maintenance workers, bus drivers, window cleaners and food service workers, among others.

Ramirez has also received endorsements from the Bronx Democratic Party, Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr., the Working Families Party and others.

Another powerful union, 1199 SEIU, is also expected to back him.

We've been following this race closely and will have more in the coming days.