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Candidate's photo
It's not unusual for the United Auto Workers to back a leading Democratic candidate in a statewide race.
Nonetheless, the backing announced Monday is a nice score for gubernatorial contender Gretchen Whitmer.
“Each day UAW members in Michigan go to work needing a champion, like Gretchen Whitmer, in the Governor’s office that will protect their safety, protect their jobs, protect their economic security and strengthen their schools, communities and public services,” union president Dennis Williams says in a statement.
“Gretchen Whitmer is the best choice for UAW members and their families, because she understands that every UAW job, every UAW contract and every UAW product and service lifts our Michigan economy. Gretchen Whitmer will work with the UAW to unite and build a better Michigan as our next Governor.”
The latest announcement puts most unions and party establishment figures on her side, including Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, former Gov. James Blanchard and former Attorney General Frank J. Kelley.
So far, according to polls, the race is between Whitmer and Republican Attorney General Bill Schuette.
"Michigan workers created the middle class and put the world on wheels, so it’s time they had a governor who will fix the roads and fight for working people," Whitmer says in a statement. “The UAW paved the way for workers and their families to rise up and demand better wages, good health care, and the right to retire in dignity. I’m proud to have them in my corner because with Michigan’s workers by my side, our momentum is unstoppable.
"Together, we're going to win back our state for working families, fix our roads, create good-paying jobs, and protect health care
