Statement from IUOE 825 Business Manager Greg Lalevee

The working families of New Jersey have had no stronger ally than Congressman Albio Sires. Sadly, some ill-informed folks have too short a memory when it comes to our elected leaders,” explained Greg Lalevee, Business Manager of the International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 825.

“When the Port of Newark could have lost the shipping tankers that now make NJ a critical economic hub for 40% of the US population, Albio sprang into action and secured the funds to raise the Bayonne Bridge, assuring our regional success for the next decade. These new opposition organizations were nowhere to be found then…. On the Transportation Committee, the essential repair and replacement of the Portal Bridge is part in thanks to Congressman Sires’ steadfast advocacy – ensuring all New Jerseyans will be able to commute safely and quickly when completed. Others sat on the sidelines.

It is no secret that in political primaries across the country, extreme ideologues and their supporters are trying to rewrite history. However, the real working families of New Jersey know that Albio Sires has been fighting for them as a Mayor, Assemblyman, Speaker and as our Congressman — and The Operating Engineers with proudly fight alongside him to continue making New Jersey a better place for hard working men and women.”