Endorsement and Call to Action
The United Auto Workers (UAW) Region 9A, representing thousands of public defenders, museum staff, and academics in New York, has endorsed a trio of left-leaning Democratic mayoral primary candidates, urging its members and the public not to rank Eric Adams on their ballots.
United Behind a Working-Class Agenda
The union, which has over 50,000 members in New England, New York City, and Puerto Rico, voted unanimously to support Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani, City Comptroller Brad Lander, and state Sen. Jessica Ramos. These candidates, said Region 9A Director Brandon Mancilla, are "outspoken champions" of the union and have a clear "working-class agenda."
Union’s Reasons for Exclusion
The union explicitly called on its members and the public to not rank Eric Adams due to his policies, including cuts to 3-K programs, skyrocketing rent, and the cost of living.
New Process for Endorsement
The UAW Region 9A’s endorsement decision was the first under a new process, which allows rank-and-file members greater say in the decision. The union’s New York City locals surveyed their members, created candidate questionnaires, and held interview forums open to each local’s entire membership.
Survey Questions and Topics
The union’s 50-question candidate survey covered a range of topics, including rent, affordability, and tax reform. It also addressed issues close to the rank and file, such as the plan for closing Rikers Island jails, ending solitary confinement, funding for cultural institutions, and support for New Yorkers facing eviction.
Candidates’ Reactions
Mamdani and Lander expressed their gratitude for the union’s endorsement, citing their shared vision for affordability, protecting workers’ rights, and preventing evictions. Ramos also welcomed the endorsement and emphasized her commitment to working families.
Conclusion
The UAW Region 9A’s endorsement of Mamdani, Lander, and Ramos is a significant show of support for left-leaning candidates in the New York mayoral primary. By explicitly calling on its members and the public not to rank Eric Adams, the union is making a statement about the candidates’ positions on key issues and the need for change in the city.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What motivated the union’s endorsement of Mamdani, Lander, and Ramos?
A: The union cited the candidates’ consistent support for workers’ rights, affordable housing, and social justice.
Q: Why did the union call on its members and the public not to rank Eric Adams?
A: The union criticized Adams’ policies, including cuts to 3-K programs, skyrocketing rent, and the cost of living.
Q: What is the new process for endorsing candidates that the UAW Region 9A adopted?
A: The process allows rank-and-file members greater say in the endorsement decision, with surveys, questionnaires, and interview forums for members to engage with candidates.
Q: Will the union reconsider its endorsement before the primary?
A: The union’s message is clear: Reject Eric Adams. However, the union may adjust its endorsement if candidates change their positions on key issues or if circumstances warrant a reconsideration.
