SAN FRANCISCO – In a major sign of momentum for his campaign, Democratic gubernatorial candidate Tom Steyer received the endorsement of United Brotherhood of Carpenters (UBC), one of the largest and most influential building trades unions in North America, representing more than half a million members. The endorsement marks a significant show of approval from California’s building trades for Steyer’s plan to build more than 1 million homes Californians can afford.

“As Governor, Tom Steyer won’t be beholden to special interests,” Pete Rodriguez, Vice President of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters said. “Union carpenters know what it means to put in long hours and still struggle to afford a roof over our heads.” 

“Tom respects and values the hard work and dignity that comes with earning a living with your hands,” Rodriguez added. “He understands that strong unions and strong working families built California’s middle class. We need leadership willing to stand up, make tough decisions, and fight for the people who build this state every single day. It was hardworking men and women, backed by bold leadership and investment in America’s workforce, that helped lift this country out of the Great Depression — and that’s the kind of fight and vision we need again today. That’s why we’re supporting Tom Steyer for Governor.”

“California is in the middle of a housing and affordability crisis that’s pushing working families out of the communities they built,” Steyer said. “I’m honored to have the endorsement of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and its members, who show up every day with the skill, pride, and dedication necessary to literally lay the foundations of our future. I look forward to working with them to tackle California’s housing crisis head-on. Together, we will build homes Californians can afford and lower the cost of living so this state works for working people.”

United Brotherhood of Carpenters joins the long list of labor unions who have endorsed Steyer’s progressive agenda, including AFSCME 3299, California Federation of Teachers (CFT), California Labor Federation AFL-CIO, California Nurses Association (CNA), California School Employees Association (CSEA), California Teachers Association (CTA), International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, Moving Picture Technicians, Artists and Allied Crafts of the United States, Its Territories and Canada (IATSE), International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers Local 21 (IFPTE Local 21), SEIU California, and United Domestic Workers (UDW). See the full list of endorsers here.

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