Mufi Hannemann. File photo by Wendy Osher.

By Wendy Osher

Congressional candidate Mufi Hannemann earned an endorsement yesterday from the 15,000 member Hawaii Construction Alliance.

The announcement was made at a rally held at the Training Center of the Operating Engineers Local 3 in Kapolei.

Hannemann, who is running for the 2nd Congressional District in the US House expressed gratitude for the endorsement saying, “This election will be a referendum on who can provide the experience, ideas, and leadership to put people back to work.”

The Hawaii Construction Alliance is comprised of the Operating Engineers, the Hawaii Laborers’ Union Local 368, Hawaii Masons’ Union Local 1 and Local 630, and the Hawaii Regional Council of Carpenters.

The unions represent the four basic crafts of the construction industry: carpentry, heavy equipment, masonry and general labor.

“These organizations, among Hawaii’s largest building trade unions, know that we need to invest in our public infrastructure, bolster the visitor industry by revitalizing aging hotels, and create opportunities for housing and other construction, if we are to reinvigorate our economy,” said Hannemann.  “Their support demonstrates their confidence in my track record and ability to champion these causes,” he said.

Operating Engineers District Representative, Pane Meatoga, Jr. said, “Hannemann’s extraordinary record in support of organized labor and workers’ rights, economic development and job creation for Hawaii’s families make him the natural choice for us in this crucial congressional election.”

In remarks before the gathering, Hannemann expressed appreciation for the endorsement saying, “This election will be a referendum on who can provide the experience, ideas and leadership to put people back to work.”

Hannemann is seeking the seat being vacated by US Rep. Mazie Hirono, who is running for US Sen. Daniel Akaka’s seat in 2012.

Other key contenders in the race for the 2nd Congressional District seat are Honolulu City Councilwoman Tulsi Gabbard, and Esther Kiaaina.