9.28.24 – APFA LGA Base Brief – APFA PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE ENDORSEMENTS

APFA PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE ENDORSEMENTS
Saturday, September 28, 2024
Last week, APFA endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris and Governor Tim Walz of Minnesota for President and Vice President of the United States. Now that the election is underway, I want to make sure it is clear that APFA is not speaking on behalf of each member with the Union’s endorsement. I would never support any such endorsement on behalf of any individual member. APFA has taken a stance on supporting specific presidential candidates on behalf of our organization.
Our goal is primarily to support candidates for or current legislators who have consistently supported labor unions and their efforts in countering corporate influence. Their legislative actions and opposition to potential bills that become laws that affect our bargaining power and working conditions have been mainly due to the strong support from Democratic candidates/legislators over the years. As your local base president andone of a few minorities on the APFA board of directors, I believe this demonstrates the effectiveness of our collaborative efforts with like-minded legislators who share our union’s principles.
As far as I am aware, APFA does not plan to poll members on their political views to make endorsement decisions because we are not acting politically but responsibly and by our policies. Instead, our decisions are based on the candidates’ or parties’ positive impact on workers nationwide. Our commitment to inclusivity and bipartisan engagement remains unwavering, ensuring that every member’s voice is heard and respected.
While I am not directly involved with the intricacies of the Government Affairs department, I trust that they extend support and advocacy to all members, regardless of party affiliation or choice of candidate in any election. Our members’ opinions should matter, and we must remain committed to fostering an environment of dialogue and understanding. There is no better accomplishment than one achieved in a bipartisan way.
Please remember, “In New York, We Take Care of One Another.”
In Solidarity,
Christian M. Santana
LGA Base President
[email protected]
PROUD to Represent New York – LGA
