Strong early endorsement rooted in track record of support for working families and leadership on progressive policies
SEATTLE – The re-election campaign of King County Executive Dow Constantine received a major boost today as the state’s four largest Service Employees International Union (SEIU) locals joined together for an unprecedented early endorsement. Together, Locals 925, 1199NW, 775, and 6 represent over 100,000 workers across fields of childcare and education, nursing, hospital and home health care, and janitorial services. Constantine, a Democrat, last week also received endorsements from Governor Jay Inslee and over three dozen current and former Demcoratic legislators.
“I am so grateful for the early and strong support from SEIU locals and members,” said Constantine. “These are partnerships rooted in my long standing support for progressive tax reform, for pay equity and paid family leave, and more recent joint efforts to address the homelessness and housing crisis, provide expanded career opportunities in child care and early learning, and invest in public health and pandemic response.”
Karen Hart, President of SEIU 925, said, “Dow Constantine is a steadfast champion for working families. From basic worker protections to innovative child care initiatives, he listens to the needs of the folks who help our region grow and keep our economy strong. SEIU 925 members are proud to re-endorse Dow for King County Executive.”
“Dow has been a champion, partner and close friend of our Union. He’s been on our picket lines fighting for safe patient care and he has been a steadfast ally addressing systemic issues such as deeming racism a public health emergency,” said Diane Sosne, RN MN, President of SEIU Healthcare 1199NW. “We need more leaders like Dow who will put their noses down and do the hard work that isn’t about just scoring political points but helping real people like our members who are on the front lines of this pandemic.”
Zenia Javalera, President of SEIU 6, said, “Executive Constantine’s leadership has been beneficial to King County workers. SEIU 6 members look forward to Dow’s continued leadership as we work together for economic justice and address the racial disparities that prevent too many of our families from finding that justice.”
Sterling Harders, President of SEIU 775, added, “From increasing support for services to help seniors live with dignity in their own homes, to promoting access to vaccines for caregivers on the front lines, Executive Constantine has been a real champion for long-term care workers and the vulnerable residents they care for. As we face major challenges here in King County, we are confident he will help lead an equitable pandemic recovery that puts people first.”
“As we tackle the economic and pandemic challenges facing our region, it is critical to build inclusion and opportunity for all working people,” said Constantine. ”I am excited to continue working with SEIU as we rebuild with a focus on equity and continued progressive leadership for all the people of King County and the Puget Sound region.”