McGarvey 'could not be more proud' of the state AFL-CIO endorsement

By BERRY CRAIG

AFT Local 1360

State Sen. Morgan McGarvey says he couldn't be prouder that the Kentucky State AFL-CIO is backing him for Congress. 

“Our economy works best when Kentucky workers have money in their pockets, a secure retirement, job security, and feel safe and respected at work,” the candidate said in a Friday statement. "The Kentuckians who make up the AFL-CIO fight for those things every single day. I could not be more proud to have their support, and I look forward to making them proud in Congress.” 

McGarvey, the state Senate minority leader, aims to succeed retiring Congressman John Yarmuth. Both are Louisville Democrats. 

McGarvey's statement came in a campaign news release that included a statement from Bill Londrigan, state AFL-CIO president: “Morgan has been an unwavering champion of workers’ rights and a staunch supporter of trade unions and the right to collective bargaining. He has demonstrated his compassion and caring for all Kentuckians during his tenure in the Senate, and we are confident that he will carry on the great work of retiring Congressman John Yarmuth, The Kentucky labor movement looks forward to continuing our long and fruitful relationship with Morgan in the U.S. House.”

McGarvey, an attorney, has primary opposition from state Rep. Attica Scott, also a Louisville Democrat.

Before Yarmuth, the House Budget Committee chair, announced last year that he wouldn't seek a ninth term, Scott filed against him in the primary. McGarvey tossed his hat in the ring minutes after Yarmuth publicly said he was stepping down. Yarmuth ultimately endorsed McGarvey.

Seven Republicans are vying for the right to run against McGarvey or Scott. The Third District includes most of the Louisville Metro area. 

The Greater Louisville Central Labor Council unanimously recommended McGarvey for endorsement. The state AFL-CIO Executive Board, acting as the COPE Committee, agreed, unanimously endorsing McGarvey on Wednesday.