Building trades unions back State Sen. Sharif Street in Pennsylvania’s 3rd Congressional District race.

The influential Philadelphia building trades unions have formally endorsed State Senator Sharif Street in his bid for the congressional seat currently held by the retiring U.S. Representative Dwight Evans. This endorsement significantly enhances Street’s standing within the Democratic establishment, providing a crucial boost as he prepares for a challenging election cycle.

Ryan Boyer, who leads both the Laborers District Council and the Philadelphia Building and Construction Trades Council—a coalition comprising over 30 labor unions—underscored the importance of experienced leadership in Washington. Boyer emphasized that amidst the complexities emerging from the nation’s capital, the need for a seasoned political figure is paramount. Street, who comes from a prominent political lineage as the son of former Mayor John F. Street, received unanimous support from the trades council.

Street accepted the endorsement at the Sheet Metal Workers Local 19 union hall and highlighted the importance of having a representative capable of standing up to political adversaries, particularly referencing former President Donald Trump and his controversial history with labor relations.

Street, who recently resigned as chair of the Pennsylvania Democratic Party to focus on his congressional campaign, has already garnered support from eight local unions within the trades. This early backing highlights his appeal among labor groups, although it previously faced skepticism from certain union leaders. However, with the trades council’s robust endorsement now secured, Street aligns himself with one of the most influential entities in local political dynamics.

Historically, these unions have played a decisive role in local elections, contributing significant funds to their preferred candidates and leveraging super PACs to further their political agendas. Although a substantial portion of the trades’ approximately 50,000 members reside outside Philadelphia, they actively mobilize for local elections.

Looking ahead, Street may soon gain additional institutional backing, as anticipated endorsements from the Democratic City Committee could solidify his candidacy further. Bob Brady, chairman of the committee, indicated that Street’s endorsement appears highly likely, suggesting he faces minimal resistance within the party ranks.

Street’s competition in the Democratic primary includes a diverse range of candidates, such as State Representatives Morgan Cephas and Chris Rabb, as well as other notable entrants including Ala Stanford and David Oxman. The primary election will be critical, as the winner is expected to have a strong advantage in the general election, given that the 3rd Congressional District is predominantly Democratic.

Though Street is establishing firm ties within the party, his rivals may capitalize on different strengths. For example, Rabb presents himself as a progressive candidate who has successfully garnered support in previous elections against establishment favorites. Additionally, Cephas benefits from her strong connections to the West Philadelphia political landscape. One emerging contender, Stanford, has garnered attention for her contributions to public health during the pandemic, creating a nuanced dynamic within the primary battle.

As the election approaches, the support from the labor unions will be vital for Street in navigating a competitive field of candidates, as each vies for the opportunity to represent a district that holds significant political weight in Philadelphia and beyond.