UE Local 1010 Endorsement Process

Across the country, UE advances a policy of independent political action to advance our policies; from Medicare for all and the green locomotive project, to the fight against police brutality and war. This means engaging in electoral campaigns without illusions about the class allegiance of the two major parties. Rather than being a drain on our local’s limited resources, rank-and-file political action brings more of our coworkers into the struggle for our future and teaches us ways to fight against any opponent. This strengthens our local union in the period between contract campaigns. In UE, we support the formation of a Workers' political party, which can democratically resolve the differences within the working class so that workers can speak with one voice and strike with one fist. Until we have that party, we engage in politics independently from either major party, while supporting candidates based on their alignment with our working-class priorities.

Local 1010 Endorsement Process

Step 1

Declare Intent

A candidate seeking our endorsement should declare their intent to be endorsed by our local union by contacting the union secretary, and must be sponsored by at least one rank-and-file member of the local union. If the candidate is a member they may sponsor themselves.

Step 2

Candidate Fills Out Questionnaire

The candidate will be sent an endorsement questionnaire.

Step 3

Sponsor Gathers Member Signatures

On receiving the completed endorsement questionnaire, the union secretary shall provide copies of the completed questionnaire and petition sheets to the sponsor and inform them of the required number of signatures. The petition sheets shall contain instructions for how to collect signatures off of working time, commit signers to supporting an endorsement, and commit signers to spend time organizing in the community for the candidate, if endorsed.

Step 4

Answer to Membership Meeting + Endorsement Vote

On receiving signatures from 5% of the union’s membership, the question of endorsing the candidate shall be put on the agenda within the next 2 membership meetings. The candidate shall be invited to attend and answer to the membership. At least 10 days

notice is required, and the questionnaire shall be circulated with the notice of the endorsement vote.

Candidate FAQ