ST. LOUIS – With the August primary election just over three weeks away, incumbent Congresswoman Cori Bush is picking up some key endorsements.
During a press conference at Kiener Plaza Friday, Bush’s campaign received a big boost in her bid for re-election for Missouri’s 1st Congressional District. Dozens of union leaders stood alongside Bush, announcing their support.
“Coming out of COVID, many homeowners were going to lose and be evicted from their homes, creating a larger homeless population here in St Louis and across the country,” Jay Ozier, president of Coalition of Black Trade Unionist St. Louis Chapter, said. “Cori Bush sat there on the Capitol steps to fund it, to help ensure American people (and) homeowners be able to keep their homes.”
Some of the endorsements came from well-known labor groups, including SEIU Healthcare, National Nurses United, and Communication workers of America.
“She is one of the few congresspeople that come to the VA St. Louis every year and she particularly asks to meet with the Union. So, she’s a strong supporter of unions and that’s why we believe she is the best candidate for St. Louis,” April Williams from American Federation of Government Employees said.
Bush’s opponents are St. Louis County Prosecutor Wesley Bell and former State Senator Maria Chappelle Nadal. Although Bell has raised more money than Bush on the campaign trail, she believes Friday’s endorsements will push her to victory.
“It’s why in Congress I am relentlessly fighting for unions, for fair wages, for safe working conditions, and for the rights of every worker,” Bush said.
Bell has secured some key-labor endorsements in his election bid, including Electrical Workers, Pipefitters, and the Mid-America Carpenter’s Regional Council.
“A former union member, Wesley understands firsthand how important it is to fight for workers’ rights,” a statement from Bell’s spokesperson said. “He is proud of the many labor endorsements he’s received in this campaign, and will fight for workers every day in Congress.” The primary election is on Aug. 6.
