Sacramento, CA – The Service Employees International Union (SEIU) California today announced the 700,000-member union’s endorsement of Kevin de León to represent California in the United States Senate. The endorsement was announced after SEIU California members from across the state participated in the union’s One Voice Town Hall, where members met with the candidates, asked their questions, and then made their selection for the candidate they’ll support now through November.

 “Kevin de León is a leader who speaks up for California values.  His leadership on the most pressing challenges facing California stands in stark contrast with the dysfunctional political establishment in Washington, D.C.,” said David Huerta, Executive Board Member, SEIU California. “Kevin shouldered our fight for $15 minimum wage across the finish line, holds a strong record on environmental justice, and fought valiantly to protect our immigrant communities when the Trump Administration moved to openly attack them and divide families.  He’s stood up for us and our California values again and again and now we are proud to stand shoulder to shoulder and endorse Kevin de León to be our next U.S. Senator.”

“Kevin de León took the time to meet with SEIU members and spent a day walking in our shoes.  He heard our concerns over growing inequality, and we heard his commitment to stand with us to fight injustice.  It’s clear that he shares our dreams:  to build a state and a country where every one of our children has the same opportunities to thrive, no matter where they were born,” said Michelle Melendez, Child Care Provider and Member of SEIU Local 521.

 “I am incredibly humbled to receive the endorsement of SEIU California. With SEIU members’ support, I am confident we can take the fight for our California values to President Trump’s doorstep in Washington, D.C.” said De León. “We must demand more of our elected leaders in Washington.  Right now, it is clear they lack the political willpower to prioritize the issues we care on the floor of the U.S. Senate.  It is time for new leadership that will fight tirelessly for fair and equal wages, a growing economy that generates good-paying jobs, and more opportunities for everyone. My whole life I have worked to defend our California Dream.  That’s why I won’t be just another party-line vote in Washington.  Instead, I will be the outspoken activist Californians need on the issues they care about most.”