CTA's Largest Union Endorses Jesus 'Chuy' Garcia For Mayor
(CBS) -- The CTA's largest union has endorsed Jesus "Chuy" Garcia in the mayor's race, reports WBBM's Nancy Harty.
The union representing some 5,000 current and retired CTA workers is backing Chuy Garcia in the mayor's race.
"I am delighted to accept this show of support from the hardworking men and women who power the rail lines all over Chicagoland," Garcia said.
The announcement came after an interview process that started back in November, Kelly says.
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Describing Garcia as genuine, the head of ATU Local 308 Robert Kelly says Alderman Bob Fioretti met with them, whereas Mayor Emanuel did not.
"Obviously, we are not going to endorse someone who didn't take the time to come here and talk with us. It is that simple," Kelly said.
In explaining his vote, Kelly says he is tired about hearing about school closings, murders and transit problem. He suggests the next mayor hire someone to run the CTA that knows something about transportation.
Emanuel campaign spokesman Steve Mayberry responded in a statement saying, "The CTA has seen four of its most stable financial years in recent memory and has seen a construction and renovation boom that has created thousands of jobs and is unmatched since the inception of elevated trains, including the complete reconstruction of the Red Line South in only five months. We think Chicago is better off for the mayor's efforts on transit and look forward to continuing the effort of building a new Chicago for another four years."
