In recognition of his dedication to Illinois workers, Mike Phillips, (D-Lostant), has been endorsed by the Committee on Political Education (COPE) of the one million member strong Illinois AFL/CIO.  Mike is seeking the Democratic nomination for Illinois State Representative in the 106th House District.

"Organized labor has been, and will continue to be, important to the economic development of central Illinois.  Unions have taken on the responsibility for training many of the skilled laborers in our district.  We need to support the unions’ efforts by encouraging partnerships between unions, businesses, and educators that will provide high quality workers for the jobs of the future.”

The 106th District covers portions of LaSalle, Livingston, McLean, Tazewell, and Woodford Counties and includes over 7000 members of AFL/CIO-affiliated unions.

"I am a strong supporter of the working men and women of Illinois.  I believe that by protecting the workers’ rights to organize and be represented as a group, Illinois will continue to be home to businesses that make high quality products and pay a living wage.  The unions have a long tradition of advocating safe working conditions and good salaries for all workers, not just members, and we need to respect and support the roles they have taken on."

Mr. Phillips teaches at Illinois Valley Community College in Oglesby where he has been a member of Illinois Federation of Teachers Local 1810 since being hired in 1997.  He has been on the membership committee since 1998.

Dave McBride, Business Manager of Laborers Local 996 in Roanoake, said “I met Mike last summer when he decided to run for the 106th State Rep seat.  Mike is in touch with the working men and women, and I know he will work to bring good jobs to the District.”

Mr. Phillips is unopposed in the March 21st Primary and will face incumbent Keith Summer (R-Morton) in General Election next November.