South Bay Labor Council Election Endorsements: In a surprising turn of events, the South Bay Labor Council, representing over 100 unions in Santa Clara and San Benito counties, has announced its endorsements for the November 2024 election. While some familiar faces receive support, notable surprises and omissions have caught the public’s attention.
The Labor Council is throwing its weight behind several candidates seeking open seats on the San Jose City Council. Among them is Babu Prasad, president of the District 2 Leadership Council, who aspires to represent District 2. Labor is also backing Olivia Navarro, a dedicated union adviser running for District 6, and Lenka Wright, a government leader and media specialist aiming to secure District 10.
Jean Cohen, the executive officer for the South Bay Labor Council, lauded these candidates for their commitment to their communities and shared values. Babu Prasad, an active neighborhood leader, has earned recognition for his union involvement. Olivia Navarro’s long-standing dedication as a local labor leader in her community sets her apart. Lenka Wright, a Pro-choice Democratic woman running in a traditionally conservative district, represents a new direction.
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Notably absent from the Labor Council’s endorsements is David Cohen, the incumbent for District 4 on the San Jose City Council. Jean Cohen explained that the Labor Council’s decision not to support Cohen’s re-election bid stems from a belief that a stronger champion for working families is needed. Cohen’s record was deemed inconsistent with the Labor Council’s core principles, and his perceived lack of initiative on behalf of working people led to this decision.
David Cohen, however, expressed his unwavering commitment to serving District 4 residents, particularly those traditionally underserved, by providing essential resources to create a safe and healthy community.
Moving beyond the city council, the South Bay Labor Council has extended its endorsements to the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors. Key endorsements include Betty Duong, Chief of Staff for Supervisor Cindy Chavez in District 2, and the endorsement of District 3 Supervisor Otto Lee for re-election. Additionally, former Mountain View Mayor and Councilmember Margaret Abe-Koga is supported for District 5.
These endorsements reflect the Labor Council’s dedication to candidates who share their values and demonstrate the ability to govern effectively and in partnership with the Labor and the community.
While the Labor Council’s endorsements have garnered support, the Santa Clara County Democratic Pd disappointment with the omission, emphasizing Cohen’s strong commitment to the Democratic party’s values throughout his career.
Bill James, chair of the Santa Clara County Democratic Central Committee, shed light on the decision. A split vote in District 4 between Cohen and former Councilmember and State Assemblymember Kansen Chu played a role in the non-endorsement. While many have a positive opinion of Councilmember Cohen, the 2/3 threshold required for an endorsement was not met, making it a close call.
In summary, the South Bay Labor Council’s endorsements for the 2024 election reveal a multifaceted endorsement landscape. While new faces are welcomed, notable omissions have sparked debate and highlighted the significance of shared values and commitment to working families in local politics