ALBANY, N.Y. Nov. 20, 2017 — New York State United Teachers today embraced the candidacy of Anthony Brindisi for Congress, saying the Utica-area state assemblyman is a fighter for public education and the middle class who would champion the interests of working people in the 22nd congressional District.
The union’s Board of Directors voted unanimously to recommend Brindisi’s early endorsement to its national affiliates, the American Federation of Teachers and the National Education Association. It comes just days after the incumbent, U.S. Rep. Claudia Tenney, betrayed her constituents by voting in favor of a tax bill that provided most of its benefits to the wealthy and big corporations, while eliminating key deductions for state and local taxes that help middle-class families in the 22nd District.
NYSUT President Andy Pallotta noted that, while in the Assembly, Brindisi has been a stalwart supporter of public education and policies that benefit working families.
“Middle-class families in the Mohawk Valley can count on Anthony Brindisi to fight for their interests in Washington. He is a true champion and the kind of leader the 22nd District needs to stand up to those who are rigging the system in favor of big corporations and the wealthy.”
In recommending Brindisi’s early endorsement, NYSUT will ensure the union’s phone-banking operations and strong “ground game” get behind the Democrat’s candidacy.
New York State United Teachers is a statewide union with more than 600,000 members in education, human services and health care. NYSUT is affiliated with the American Federation of Teachers, the National Education Association and the AFL-CIO.