[Portland, OR] – Yesterday, Oregon’s largest labor union, SEIU, announced their endorsement of Tina Kotek for Oregon Governor. SEIU Oregon, which is composed of SEIU Local 503 and SEIU Local 49, represents more than 87,000 workers in health care, home care, janitorial, and public service.
“Tina Kotek has a proven track record of passing legislation that betters the lives of SEIU members and working families across our state,” said SEIU 503 President Mike Powers. “Following a comprehensive endorsement process, an overwhelming majority of our members believe that Speaker Kotek has the experience and vision to help our state emerge from the pandemic and thrive.”
“Oregon’s next governor will have a profound impact on our members’ lives as well as the communities we live in and serve throughout Oregon,” said SEIU 49 President Meg Niemi. “After thoroughly evaluating all of the candidates, SEIU Oregon members have spoken clearly and in unity: We want Tina Kotek for governor.”
“I am honored to have the support of hardworking people who show up every day and make our communities stronger,” said Tina Kotek, candidate for Governor. “Throughout my public service, I have fought alongside SEIU members to make life better for working families. Together, we raised the minimum wage, passed paid sick leave, and expanded access to quality, affordable health care. As Governor, I will put people first, prioritize justice and fairness, and bring Oregonians together to reach for a better future.”
“Tina Kotek is passionate,” said SEIU 503 member and University of Oregon custodian Johnny Earl. “She’s passionate about Oregon, passionate about addressing homelessness, passionate about how Oregon is using our funds to help bring others up. If I were choosing someone to lead our state, I would choose Tina Kotek.”
“As a home care worker, I’ve seen firsthand Speaker Kotek’s ability to pass legislation that changes lives and supports people who are often overlooked by government,” said SEIU 503 member Rebecca Sandoval. “Tina Kotek puts in the work and knows how to get things done for everyday Oregonians. She is the clear choice for our next governor.”
“Long before we were praised as ‘heroes’, Tina Kotek has treated health care workers with the respect and support that we deserve for keeping people healthy,” said SEIU 49 member and Certified Nursing Assistant Juanita Kamhoot. “Speaker Kotek has demonstrated her ability to better the lives of working people across Oregon and is my only choice to lead our state.”