A major labor union in Illinois and Northwest Indiana has endorsed former prosecutor Kim Foxx in the 2016 race for Cook County state's attorney, saying Foxx is an "excellent manager" who is willing to listen to their needs.
SEIU Local 73, which represents 28,000 public service employees in the state and in Northwest Indiana, announced its support for Foxx on Friday.
Foxx and Donna More, also a former prosecutor, are both challenging Alvarez's incumbency in the spring primary. Alvarez was first elected as Cook County state's attorney in 2008, and next year will be the first time she runs in a contested primary for the seat.
"We witnessed improvements and sincere efforts by Ms. Foxx to correct problems and keep promises made to employees during her time as President Preckwinkle's Chief of Staff," said union president Christine Boardman. "Kim is an excellent manager, dealing with the huge budget of the county, and she is willing to listen to and communicate with those who are directly impacted by administrative decisions. We need her leadership in making Cook County's criminal justice system fairer and more just."
Foxx's personal story of growing up in the Cabrini Green public housing complex with a single mother and enduring homelessness in high school has added fuel to her campaign as she touts her personal success and her message of commitment to solving issues of crime, violence and poverty.
The endorsement from SEIU adds to Foxx's growing list of supporters, which also includes Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-9th District) and Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle.
"I appreciate the support of the members of Local 73, who keep our city and county working," Foxx said. "I look forward to working with SEIU going forward, toward a more just and healthy community."
