Unions, traditionally, have been involved in politics for three reasons:
- To gain recognition of the right of workers to form unions and bargain collectively;
- To protect the gains won through collective bargaining; and,
- To promote justice and equal economic opportunity for all.
Union members have achieved much by acting collectively to set agendas and then elect politicians who believe in the same things. That is the reason why unions today are politically motivated and continue to be involved in shaping the future of politics within their states and across the country.
We seek to work in a bipartisan manner and favor labor-friendly candidates as we look to the future.
Letter to all Candidates Seeking Political Endorsement
State Employees’ Association Political Endorsement Process
The State Employees’ Association (SEIU Local 1984) unites over 10,000 New Hampshire state and municipal employees. SEA members working in the healthcare industry, the public sector, and property services believe in the power of joining together on the job to win higher wages and benefits and to create better communities while fighting for a more just society and an economy that works for all of us.
The goal of any endorsement is to elect candidates who support labor policy positions. Endorsements of political candidates are done on the basis of several criteria, not by political party affiliation. Below are the tenants we follow and look for in our candidates. If you are seeking an endorsement by the SEA/SEIU Local 1984, please download the questionnaire below and return it to our political team at: ctiernan@seiu1984.org or mail it to SEA/SEIU Local 1984, 207 N. Main Street, Concord, NH 03301.
Download the Endorsement Questionnaires below:
Download the State Legislator questionnaire here.
Download the Congressional questionnaire here.
Download the Gubernatorial questionnaire here.
Download the Executive Council questionnaire here.
WE ENDORSE CANDIDATES BASED ON THE FOLLOWING TENANTS:
Union Building. We endorse candidates who support legislation and policy that gives all workers the right to organize and collectively bargain for better wages, benefits, and working conditions.
Retirement. We endorse candidates who support legislation and policy that preserves the safety and security of our retirement systems.
Fair Wages. We endorse candidates who support legislation and policy that provides all workers with a fair wage for their work.
Work Conditions. We endorse candidates who support legislation and policy that strengthens workers’ safety, healthy working environments, and conditions.
Healthcare. We endorse candidates who support legislation and policy that give all workers and retirees quality, affordable healthcare and health benefits, regardless of the job or position.
Environment. We endorse candidates who support legislation and policy that fosters safe and healthy living and working conditions at home and on the job.