The federation of more than 1,000 Local Unions supports Swanson’s vision for MN’s economic future
Hermantown, MN (August 26, 2026)— Trina Swanson’s campaign for Congress today announced an endorsement from the Minnesota AFL-CIO, a federation of more than 1,000 Local Unions, representing more than 300,000 working Minnesotans. This influential labor endorsement comes on the heels of Trina Swanson’s commanding August primary victory, where she earned 77% of the vote, and drew the highest Minnesota primary turnout in more than 36 years.
The Minnesota AFL-CIO works to improve the lives of working people, retirees, and families, advocating for economic and social justice in workplaces and communities across the state and country. Their mission of empowering workers and strengthening the voice of Minnesota’s working families aligns directly with Swanson’s “Opportunity at Home” platform.
“I am honored to have received this endorsement,” said Trina Swanson. “I grew up in a union household, where my father worked in both construction and at the local paper mill, and my mom was a union nurse. I was also a member of the AFGE for many years. I understand firsthand the importance of collective bargaining and strengthening the rights of workers and will fight for our labor community in Congress.”
The AFL-CIO supports leaders who will champion workers’ rights and stand up to all forms and systems of oppression. Each election cycle, the Minnesota AFL-CIO endorses candidates who are deeply rooted in their communities, and committed to delivering real results across Minnesota.
“The NEALC and its union brothers and sisters deserve to have a congressional representative who is accessible, an outspoken advocate for labor unions across our region and the willingness to have some tough conversations. Trina Swanson has proven that she is all that and more.” said Beth McCuskey, Vice President of Northeast Minnesota Area Labor Council, AFL-CIO.
The endorsement of the AFL-CIO joins a broad coalition of support for Trina Swanson’s campaign, including the DFL, the DFL Senior, Rural, and Veteran’s Caucuses, the Minnesota Association of Professional Employees, Save the Boundary Waters Action Fund, Women Winning, We Are Rising and Resisting Indivisible group, Feminist Majority, Rep. Betty McCollum, Sen. Tina Smith, and several notable community and union leaders.
The campaign continues to build momentum from individuals across Minnesota focused on economic security, environmental protection, labor, healthcare, and strong public service, and those who believe Minnesota deserves experienced, community-focused representation in Washington.