UFCW Local 951, Representing 30,000 Michiganders, Endorses Jocelyn Benson for Governor 

Today, the United Food and Commercial Workers union Local 951, the largest private sector union in Michigan, announced their endorsement of Jocelyn Benson’s run for governor. 

“I am proud to stand with the largest union in Michigan representing our essential workers in the private sector. I’m grateful for UFCW 951’s trust and support in my campaign to represent them as Michigan’s next governor to make our state the best place to be a kid, raise a kid, and call home,” said Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson. “I’ll build on the progress we’ve made in the last six years to fight to repeal anti-worker laws, defend MIOSHA against federal attacks, and make sure that every worker – whether in retail, manufacturing, or healthcare – has a voice on the job. Because Michigan’s economy should work for the people who power it.”

“We need leaders like Secretary Benson who are willing to stand up to anyone for working people to get the living wage they deserve,” said UFCW 951 President John Cackmaki. “Our local represents over 30,000 Michigan residents across the state who know that the future of Michigan’s working families depends upon a united voice that can stand up to powerful and greedy corporate interests. That’s why we’re standing with Jocelyn Benson for Governor.” 

“Secretary Benson has spent years making sure Michiganders are saving time and money at the Secretary of State’s offices – she’ll keep doing it as Michigan governor,” said UFCW 951 Secretary-Treasurer Courtney Phillips. “We’re standing with her because she understands that working a full time job means you should have a liveable wage. She’ll fight for fair workplace protections and strengthen MIOSHA and she’ll stand up to any bully in D.C. or Lansing who tries to threaten the livelihood of our members who work hard every day to process, protect and deliver our state’s food supply.” 

The announcement is the first local labor union endorsement for Secretary Benson’s gubernatorial campaign.

The United Food and Commercial Workers union, Local 951, represents more than 30,000 Michiganders across the state. Members work for a variety of employers that keep Michigan running including Grandville Roasting and Packaging, Harding’s, JBS, JLL, Sunberry, Kroger, Meijer, Polly’s, BE Provisioning. UFCW 951 works to improve the lives of our members, their families and all working men and women. Unions are the best assurance that all workers are treated fairly, equally and with dignity and respect.