President Barack Obama
Official White House Photo
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Bridget Martin
Tel. 202-756-2868
Cell Phone: 703-850-6124
Email: bmartin@boilermakers.org
WASHINGTON, D.C., March 9, 2012 — In a unanimous vote, the Boilermakers Executive Council proudly endorsed President Barack Obama for re-election. The Boilermakers will now begin an extensive mobilization of its membership to help ensure President Obama wins in November.
“President Obama has demonstrated his leadership in the fight to restore a strong middle class and a strong economy,” said International President Newton B. Jones. “We need leaders who share our deep commitment to make sure everyone has a fair chance to achieve the American dream. President Obama has proven that he stands with us in this effort.”
This election is a choice between very different visions for our country, Jones said. When President Obama took office, he inherited an economy on the verge of collapse. Over the past three years, he has proposed and fought for legislation — in the face of an implacable Congress — that has worked to stabilize the economy, save jobs, and prevent cuts to vital services upon which many Americans depend. In addition, he inherited two ongoing wars and diminished U.S. international influence. On both fronts, President Obama has demonstrated that he is willing and able to make hard decisions – whether saving the U.S. auto industry or bringing our troops home from Iraq and Afghanistan.
By contrast, the GOP candidates, including former governor Mitt Romney, are promoting a radically different view of America. These candidates stand with those who would strip workers of a voice in the workplace, denying workers the right to organize and bargain collectively. GOP presidential contenders oppose Davis-Bacon prevailing wage laws and Project Labor Agreements. They seek to weaken Medicare, repeal healthcare legislation, and reduce unemployment insurance. They support tax plans that don’t ask the wealthiest Americans to pay their fair share.
As we stated in our 2008 endorsement, we unequivocally believe that President Obama continues to represent our nation’s best opportunity to advance our leadership standing in the world community and skillfully manage our ongoing economic recovery.
President Obama’s campaign director, Jim Messina, remarked, “We're proud to receive the support of the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers, and we're excited to start working with them as we reelect the President. President Obama has always fought for America's workers, and he always will. Together, we're fighting for an economy built to last that gives everyone a fair shot at the American Dream.”
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The International Brotherhood of Boilermakers, Iron Ship Builders, Blacksmiths, Forgers, and Helpers is a diverse union representing members across the United States and Canada engaged in heavy construction; shipbuilding; railroads; manufacturing; cement, lime and gypsum production; and allied industries.
