AFSCME, AFT, NEA and SEIU presidents endorse Ben Wikler as chair of the Democratic National Committee

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Nicole Gaudiano

Eric Jotkoff

Nick Voutsinos

Aparna Kumar

WASHINGTON-AFSCME President Lee Saunders, AFT President Randi Weingarten, NEA President Becky Pringle and SEIU President April Verrett, whose unions represent more than 8 million union workers, issued the following statement on their endorsement of Ben Wikler as DNC chair:

"If the Democratic Party wants to be seen as the party of working families, it is vital for the DNC chair to see unions representing working families as a strategic partner. Both as a candidate for DNC chair, and in his role as chair of the Wisconsin Democratic Party, Ben has articulated a clear vision for how the Democratic Party can work together with labor to build worker power and expand the party's base to win on the issues that most affect working people, from tackling rising prices for everyday necessities to writing new rules to make it possible for every worker to join a union.

"Connecting with people who feel locked out of a living wage, quality public education, good healthcare, a decent retirement and the economic benefit of a union should be priority No. 1 for the party to win in modern times. Ben is a skilled organizer, fundraiser and communicator who understands the need to lift up working-class issues, organize year-round, and reach all corners and people of the country, including a diverse Democratic electorate and those who have been ignored for too long. His inclusive leadership, understanding that voters come from all walks of life, has led to the building of winning coalitions of voters in Wisconsin.

"He has a proven track record as the leader of one of the largest, most effective and well-funded state parties in the country. Under his leadership, Wisconsin has made progress in securing fair legislative maps and seen pro-worker gains and victories in the governorship, Senate, Supreme Court and state Legislature-putting us on firm footing to advance the agenda of working families, including the fight to repeal Act 10, protect workers and increase resources for public schools and public services.

"We know Ben will effectively lead the Democratic Party and stand with us during the next four years as we advocate for our members and communities and fight federal policies that coddle billionaires and do nothing to help the working class. Ben has the ability to unite the party during a tumultuous time and bring more working people into the fold. We enthusiastically endorse him."