RWDSU Endorses John Cherry for Governor of Michigan (2/12/09)

John Cherry accepts the RWDSU's endorsement today in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Speaking at a Grand Rapids, Michigan, news conference, Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union President Stuart Appelbaum announced the union’s support for John Cherry’s bid to become Michigan’s next governor.

“Working people in Michigan need John Cherry,” Appelbaum said. “He understands the challenges facing working families and he has the experience, ability and heart to find solutions to the tough problems Michigan’s facing,” he added.

RWDSU Secretary-Treasurer Jack Wurm, Jr. pointed out that Cherry has a “life-long commitment to building Michigan’s middle-class.” “As someone who has lived in Michigan my entire life, I know firsthand what kind of leader John Cherry is,” Wurm said. “He has never forgotten the concerns of working people because he is one of us.  During his years of public service he has been there for us and we know that, as governor, he will continue to fight for every Michigan family.”

“Lt. Governor John Cherry has a vision of a Michigan that offers economic security for working families,” said RWDSU Regional Director Randy Belliel, adding that, “John Cherry will be the governor Michigan needs.”

"It is my goal to bring people of differing views and diverse backgrounds together to solve problems and create opportunities for everyone in Michigan,” said Lt. Governor Cherry.  “Thank you to the leadership and members of the RWDSU for this very important endorsement as we move towards that goal."

Appelbaum pledged that the RWDSU “will do whatever it takes” to help elect Cherry. He noted that the RWDSU was the first union to endorse Jennifer Granholm’s candidacy in 2002.