Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump received high praise from the head of the largest municipal jail union Wednesday.
The New York City Correction Officers’ Benevolent Association (COBA) is the largest municipal jail union in the country at 11,000 members. Union President Norman Seabrook commended Trump for creating thousands of union jobs through his business ventures. Seabrook added he has not yet decided who to endorse, but the business mogul is under consideration.
“Donald Trump and I have known one another for some time and are on friendly terms,” Seabrook said in a statement to the New York Daily News. “I am considering what candidate to back in the presidential election – it will be someone who supports the issues that are important to COBA members and makes the safety of correction officers a priority.”
Seabrook reportedly told former Mayor Rudy Giuliani to endorse Trump as well, according to the report. Unions tend to overwhelmingly endorse Democrats but some break with traditional party lines for a number of reasons. Seabrook noted his concern is which candidate advocates for issues important to his union.
“Mr. Trump has created thousands of union jobs during his career and is the leading contender for one of the major party nominations,” Seabrook continued. “Certainly he is under consideration, but we have not yet met to discuss it.”
The New England Police Benevolent Association decided Dec. 10 to endorse Trump. The union noted that its primary concern was not the party, but what is best for its members. The group also rallied against President Barack Obama over anti-police rhetoric.
Union support has not been widespread for Trump. Local chapters at Unite Here have accused him of ignoring the struggles of his Las Vegas hotel workers. While Local 2455 of the National Border Patrol Council cancelled a meeting with him July 23 after Trump called illegal immigrants rapists. And International Association of Machinists President Tom Buffenbarger accused Trump of using racism and fear to garner support.
Throughout his campaign, Trump has recieved both positive and negative attention for his upfront demeanor. He has also called for much stricter immigration policies while recently proposing an embargo on Muslims immigrants. His stance has been criticized by Democrats and even some of his fellow Republicans.
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