LYNN — School Committee member and mayoral candidate Jared Nicholson has been endorsed by three major unions with a large presence in the city.
IUE-CWA 201, Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 12 and the Carmen’s Union have all announced their support for Nicholson.
“Jared sees the opportunity that we do to pick up hiring and make the most of the investments that we’ve all made in workforce development,” said Adam Kaszynski, president of Local 201, which represents thousands of GE retirees and about 1,600 active members who work at GE and Lynn’s wastewater treatment plant. “We think he is the right candidate to help Lynn make the most of that opportunity.”
The union endorsements noted Nicholson’s work on the School Committee, expressing support for his work to expand career opportunities for Lynn students by supporting more access to Lynn Vocational Technical Institute shops. Nicholson helped develop the school’s “After Dark” program, which gives students across the district the opportunity to learn job skills there. He also serves on the board of the Lynn Community Enrichment Program and has supported the E-Team machinist training program.
“This is a critical moment for Lynn. Jared recognizes that new development offers an opportunity for Lynn residents to access good careers — with benefits and wages that can support a family,” said Jim Vaughan, business agent for Local 12. “He’s willing to stand up for workers against greedy developers who would take advantage of our community.”
Nicholson said he was excited to receive the support of the three labor groups.
“It’s a great sign that we have grassroots momentum building,” he said. “It’s good not just for the campaign, but also for the values we share in Lynn for these groups about inclusive growth that benefits working people.”
The North Shore Labor Council and other local unions have not yet issued endorsements in the mayoral race, but said that they are interviewing candidates and expect to announce endorsements in September.
Nicholson is running against fellow School Committee member Michael Satterwhite and City Council President Darren Cyr.
The preliminary municipal election will be held Sept. 14. The two candidates with the most votes will be on the ballot for the Nov. 2 city election.
