The Seafarers International Union (SIU) is proud to endorse the candidacy of Senator Barack Obama of Illinois for President of the United States. The union – which represents American merchant mariners who work aboard deep sea, Great Lakes and inland waters vessels – made the decision based on the candidates’ positions on matters that directly affect SIU members.“Senator Obama has stood with the Seafarers and the U.S.-flag Merchant Marine on the vitally important issues of the Jones Act, the Maritime Security Program and cargo preference,” stated Seafarers President Michael Sacco. “Senator Obama has confirmed that an administration led by him would continue to fight for these programs in order to maintain and grow our country’s merchant fleet.”
Sacco noted the SIU has a strong history of bipartisan support on Capitol Hill. “Our union traditionally does not take party affiliation into consideration when it has endorsed. In making this endorsement, the SIU is considering what it always has when making such a decision – the primary concerns of the membership,” he added.
“The American Merchant Marine serves as the nation’s fourth arm of defense. In these uncertain times, the men and women who serve in our Armed Forces need to know their supplies will be delivered efficiently and on time. Senator Obama understands this,” said Sacco.
The Seafarers International Union was founded in 1938. Its 82,500 members live throughout the country.
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