MEDIA RELEASE

The International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots and IBEW Local 1357 have announced their endorsement of Mufi Hannemann in the race for Hawaii’s Second Congressional District, bringing Hannemann’s total labor support to 22 labor organizations with a combined membership of more than 120,000 working men and women from across the state.

Randy Swindell, Honolulu Port Representative for the Masters, Mates & Pilots said, “Mufi Hannemann has a clear understanding of the challenges facing our members and their families, and will be a strong advocate for us in Washington, D.C. We know where Mufi stands, and we believe he has the credibility, background, and experience to promote the programs and policies that are important to America’s maritime industry and the people we represent.”

Swindell continued, “As an island state, Hawaii’s economic health depends on the well-being of our maritime industry. Mufi has demonstrated a deep commitment to preserving American maritime jobs, and that is why we enthusiastically endorse him in this race.”

Scot Long, Business Manager and Financial Secretary of Local 1357, said, “We have the opportunity to send to Congress an individual who is a strong friend of the labor community. I’ve known Mufi for over four decades. He has always been a caring and compassionate person who constantly looks out for the needs and interests of the working men and women of the State of Hawaii. We are honored to go all the way with Mufi to make sure he is the next Congressman from the State of Hawaii.”

Hannemann said, “I am grateful for the support I’ve received from these two unions. Their endorsement of my candidacy validates our message that the challenges we face as a country require leaders with proven experience and a collaborative approach on Capitol Hill. As Congressman, I will champion our working families, support good quality American jobs, and most importantly, get the economy moving again.”

Since 1880, the International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots (MM&P) has worked to secure and protect the rights and working conditions of its members and of all persons who work in the seagoing maritime industry.

The MM&P consists of licensed deck officers on U.S.-flag commercial vessels sailing offshore, on the inland waterways and on civilian-crewed ships in the government fleet; state pilots; marine engineers; unlicensed seafarers; and maritime industry shore side clerical and service workers.

The MM&P has 6,800 members nationally, and is an affiliate of the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA), AFL-CIO.

IBEW Local 1357 was founded in July 1943 and represents approximately 700 telephone workers in Hawaii. IBEW Local 1357 is an affiliate of the AFL-CIO.

— Find out more:
www.mufihannemann.com