The Culinary Workers Union Local 226 and Bartenders Union Local 165 have officially endorsed the Harris-Walz ticket ahead of their rally in Las Vegas, Nevada. This endorsement comes as a significant show of support from these unions, which represent a combined total of 60,000 workers in Las Vegas and Reno.
In a statement, Culinary Union Secretary-Treasurer Ted Pappageorge highlighted Kamala Harris' consistent advocacy for union and hospitality workers. Pappageorge expressed trust in Harris to continue the progress of the Biden/Harris administration, emphasizing the importance of delivering real results that prioritize and protect working families.
Both unions are Nevada affiliates of UNITE HERE, a larger union organization. The Culinary Union, in particular, stands out as the state's largest Latinx/Black/AAPI/immigrant organization, boasting a diverse membership base representing 178 countries and speaking over 40 different languages.
The Culinary Union praised Harris for her track record of prioritizing and protecting working families, specifically noting her advocacy for affordable housing. The union's endorsement emphasized their belief that Harris and Walz will bring together workers from various backgrounds to address issues such as corporate greed and rising costs of living.
Julie Chavez Rodriguez, campaign manager for the Harris for President campaign, expressed gratitude for the unions' endorsement. Rodriguez highlighted the shared commitment to fighting for workers and achieving positive outcomes.