Mike Russo, before working for Rep. Kirsten Gillibrand and running for political office, worked with unions for nearly 30 years. Today he announced that a union has backed him in his race against Republican Roy McDonald.
The Building Trades, which is the collection of all of regions unions who represent workers employed in building construction, have endorsed Mike Russo in his bid for the NYS Senate. Early on it was widely thought the Trades would support his opponent in the race; the endorsement is seen as an indication that Russo is best equipped to bring much-needed jobs and building projects to the area.
Hearing of the Building Trades endorsement, Russo said: "Bringing good paying jobs here to our region is a top priority. In addition to large building projects, our towns and cities are in desperate need of infrastructure improvements. Our roads, bridges, sewer and water systems are in desperate need of repair, and making sure that these projects are done and completed by people from our area who receive the proper pay and benefits is a priority. I recognize that the Building Trades endorsement means they believe I am best positioned to bring these jobs to our region and I won't let them down."
Over the weekend, Russo also ran in the 2nd Annual Joseph Longobardo Memorial 5K Run. Longobardo was a New York State Trooper gunned down in the line of duty while hunting for fugitive Ralph "Bucky" Phillips. I was just entering my junior year at SUNY Fredonia when Phillips escaped and fled to Chautauqua County. I remember the overwhelming police presence, especially after Longobardo was shot and killed. It speaks to anyone's character who went out to support this cause on Sunday. Longobardo will be remembered as a hero. |
