The United Mine Workers of America, which claims to represent more coal miners than any other union in the world, announced its endorsement of Barack Obama Wednesday.
In a statement, UMWA International president Cecil E. Roberts said, "Sen. Obama will implement the clear change in direction UMWA members -- indeed, all American working people -- must have if they are to once again move forward and have a true opportunity to realize the American dream. After eight years of being pushed aside by an administration which neither respects nor values the contributions American working families make to our society, we are looking forward with great anticipation to a new era in our nation."
Interestingly, the statement doesn't mention Hillary Clinton, and presents the choice the union made as only between Obama and presumptive Republican nominee John McCain. "We looked at the positions of both Sen. Obama and Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) when considering this endorsement," Roberts said. "On issue after issue, it is clear that Sen. Obama will be on our side while Sen. McCain will not."
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