UPPER PENINSULA, Mich. (WZMQ) – Ahead of the August 4 primary election for Michigan’s 1st Congressional District, Democrat Callie Barr has received multiple endorsements over the past few weeks, such as from the Marquette County sheriff in March.
Most recently, both the Michigan Building and Construction Trades Council and Northern Michigan Building Trades have given their vocal endorsement. Those decisions surround shared priorities in the workforce, as well as a strong personal connection between Barr and the laborers themselves, something union representatives say they don’t currently receive.
“Callie answers the phone when we call. That’s all we’re asking for is someone we can get through to, to express our issues,” said Ryan Stern, a U.P. Representative for the Michigan Building and Construction Trades Council.
Other reps say the endorsements hold interest in creating and keeping careers in Upper Michigan.
“It’s not always about unions. It’s about the working and especially family aspects of it, so some of these people can stay here and make a good living in the U.P., and I think Callie absolutely can help us with that,” said Dean Gutzman, Business Manager for Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 111.
Barr recently joined leaders and members from UA Local 85, IBEW Local 498 and Sheet Metal Workers Local 7 to state the endorsement at a reception in Gaylord. She hopes the support will shift the representation of these workers, giving them more of a voice.
“As we look at infrastructure and clean energy initiatives, it’s so important that we’re making sure the people that can get us there are supported,” said Barr. “What I’ve seen in this campaign is folks understand the urgency of the moment and want to be part of a change, where we’re not okay with a congressman who doesn’t show up.”
Barr is one of three Democratic candidates running for Michigan’s 1st Congressional District seat in the U.S. House, currently held by Republican Jack Bergman. For the full list of candidates, click here.
