The endorsed candidates on SEIU California’s 2016 roster include Eric Linder (R-Corona) the first Republican to receive the worker organization’s backing in over 20 years. In recommending Linder for endorsement, SEIU members cited Linder’s accessibility and willingness to meet face-to-face with constituents, as well as his track record of standing by workers who have voted for union representation in their workplace.

“Eric Linder has been such an outstanding leader time after time on behalf of hospital workers who voted to unionize at Parkview Community Hospital in Riverside,” said Mark Janov, a Licensed psychiatric technician at Community Hospital of San Bernardino, United Healthcare Workers (UHW) Executive Boardmember and a member of SEIU International’s Conservative Committee. “While the hospital is refusing to recognize the union, Linder has never stopped urging management to honor workers’ wishes and sit down and bargain a contract. He is a great advocate and we’re fortunate to have him helping so many working families. This is why SEIU members are endorsing him for Assembly.”