NEWARK - Rich Maroko, president of the Hotel and Gaming Trades Council, AFL-CIO, reminded members today why New Jersey has taken notice of his organization.

"When our union took over New Jersey, more than a decade ago, there were less than a dozen hotels that we represented," he said at the DoubleTree Hotel by Hilton. "And the handful of workers there at the time had lost faith in their old union, and for good reason. They were working under substandard contract."

In 2013, master contract, four hotels.

Today over 100 hotels covered by the union. And our master contract boasts the largest wage increases in the 100-year history of our union.

Maroko wanted assurance from Mikie Sherrill that she will back the organization in time for their next negotiated master contract in 2028.

She gave him that commitment today.

Said Maroko of the statewide candidate:

"Mikie is the only candidate in this race who will stand up for the workers who built this great state. That’s why she’s earned a 100% lifetime AFL-CIO score.

"From her first day in Congress, Mikie has fought to expand collective bargaining rights, increase wages, and ensure that labor always has a seat at the table. Meanwhile, Jack Ciattarelli has taken every possible opportunity to make life more expensive for working families, reject Project Labor Agreements, and attack workers’ pensions and health benefits for workers."

The labor leader's (FULL!) speech HERE: