Major service union to endorse Dean

[Freddie Stubbs]

WASHINGTON (AP) — In a major boost to his campaign, Democrat Howard Dean is getting a prized presidential endorsement from one of the nation's largest unions.

The endorsement by the Service Employees International Union, which has 1.6 million members, was being announced Thursday, top union officials told at least three Democratic campaigns Wednesday night. It was to follow a meeting of the union's 63-member executive board, campaign sources said, speaking on the condition of anonymity.

SEIU spokeswoman Sara Howard said Dean was the only candidate being considered, but the board could decide not to endorse anyone.

"Tomorrow, the local leaders who comprise SEIU's executive board will come together to decide whether the union should endorse," she said. "Until they vote on that question, any speculation as to the result of that vote is just that — speculation."

more: http://pennlive.com/newsflash/lateststories/index.ssf?/base/politics-1/1068122942103211.xml

[deutsey]

1. I'm holding off my celebrating until it's official

but this is potentially GREAT news!

[CMT]

2. me too

But if it is true it will be a big shot in the arm coming at the end of a difficult week. To have a major union where a large portion of its membership is minority endorse a candidate the other candidates have been demagouging on re: his committment to civil rights will be a big victory.

[Eloriel]

3. Me too -- all the pre-publicity makes me very nervous n/t