The International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 478 today announced their intention to “help elect Dan Malloy as Connecticut’s next Governor.”  The Local’s Executive Board recently voted unanimously to support Malloy, should he become an official candidate for Governor.

Local President Benedict Cozzi said that Malloy has “stood fast to issues that affect working people, such as paid sick days, using Connecticut workers for local projects, and the right to organize.”

“At this critical time in history Connecticut needs a Governor with proven skills in government,” continued Cozzi.  “As Mayor of Stamford, Dan Malloy developed a strong track record of improving building infrastructure, rebuilding our decaying roads and bridges, and putting Connecticut workers to work on Connecticut projects.”

Founded in 1911, Local 478 now has more than 4,300 members across the state.

“I’m very proud to receive this vote of confidence from Connecticut’s operating engineers,” said Malloy.  “In my discussions in recent months with the working men and women of Local 478, it’s clear that we share a common vision for getting Connecticut’s economy back on track – one that begins and ends with jobs.  We need to protect the jobs that Connecticut has, while working to grow the pool of available jobs in the months and years ahead.”

This week Malloy also announced support from the Communication Workers of America Local 1298, who represent more than 4,000 Connecticut workers.  In addition, Malloy recently took a strong public position on the issue of paid sick leave, reaffirming his long-standing position that Connecticut employers should provide paid sick leave to their employees.

Their letter is attached here.