Washington, D.C. – Members of 32BJ SEIU today announced their endorsement of Edward “Smitty” Smith for Attorney General, encouraged by his worker-focused career in public service and pledge to strongly enforce wage theft laws. In addition to a direct mail program, union volunteers will knock on doors and make phone calls on Smitty’s behalf.

“32BJ members are inspired by Smitty’s victories on behalf of vulnerable workers and his firm commitment to protecting them from wage theft,” said Jaime Contreras, 32BJ SEIU Vice President and Capital Area Director. “As people work harder, but for less money, we need an Attorney General who will put our livelihoods above special corporate interests.”

“I am proud to have the support of the men and women who clean and protect District buildings because their fight to improve standards for all workers benefits our entire city,” said Smitty. “Elected officials and unions are the only protection working families have against exploitation and negligent employers.”

Smitty discussed his support for legislation that would ensure city money is only used towards the creation of good jobs. He also vowed to expedite action on wage theft complaints and seek significant damages from law-breaking employers. Smitty’s additional accomplishments include successful pro-worker ballot initiatives through the Obama Campaign.

With more than 145,000 members in 11 states, including 17,000 in the D.C. Metropolitan Area, 32BJ SEIU is the largest property service workers union in the country.

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