WORCESTER, MA: Today, the SEIU Massachusetts State Council endorsed City Councilor Khrystian King to be the next Mayor of Worcester. The State Council represents more than 115,000 SEIU members across the Commonwealth serving in healthcare, public services, and property services.
“As a social worker and City Councilor, Khrystian King is uniquely positioned to advocate for SEIU members and the needs of the communities we serve,” said David Foley, President of SEIU Local 509. “Throughout his years in public service, Khrystian has shown that he is dedicated to fighting for better working and living conditions for Worcester residents. He has worked hard to ensure those who are most impacted by issues have a voice in shaping policies that address them. We are proud to endorse him for Mayor of Worcester and look forward to continuing our work together.”
In July, the SEIU Massachusetts State Council hosted a month-long series of municipal candidate forums as part of their endorsement process. In Worcester, members interviewed candidates running for Mayor and City Council.
“As physicians dedicated to the well-being of our community, CIR members are proud to endorse Khrystian King for Mayor of Worcester,” said Dr. Erica Lee, New England Regional Vice President Committee of Interns and Residents SEIU. “King has continually stood by us frontline providers in our fights for better working conditions and patient care in our hospitals and his unwavering commitment to equitable healthcare access demonstrates his dedication to our community. With a visionary leader like King at the helm, we are confident that Worcester will not only be well but flourish, ensuring a healthier and brighter future for all residents.”
“The healthcare workers of 1199SEIU are proud to endorse and stand with Khrystian King for Mayor of Worcester,” said Tim Foley, Executive Vice President of 1199SEIU. “Never before have the issues of healthcare, childcare, and affordable housing have been more important, and we need a Mayor who will center workers in creating a Worcester for all. We believe Khrystian is the candidate who will do that, helping shape the future of care and bring meaningful change.”
If elected, King would be the first Black mayor of Worcester, New England’s second biggest city.
“This election represents a historic opportunity for union members and working-class people in Central Massachusetts,” said Tom McKeveer, President of SEIU Local 888.
“As a longtime social worker and union leader, a first generation American, and the first Black city councilor to win a city-wide election in Worcester, Khrystian King has always understood and strongly defended the interests of working people, immigrants, and people of color, like the janitors and security officers in our union. He has demonstrated his strong support in our fight for $15 and immigrant driver’s license campaigns,” said Roxana Rivera, 32BJ SEIU Assistant to the President. “We are proud to endorse him and stand with him in his campaign to become the next mayor of Worcester.”
