Mass. AFL-CIO Won't Endorse In Democratic Primary For Senate

BOSTON (AP) — The Massachusetts AFL-CIO has decided not to make an endorsement in the Democratic primary in the U.S. Senate special election.

Congressman Stephen Lynch and Edward Markey had both hoped to win the endorsement, but neither could garner the two-thirds vote needed Friday.

Massachusetts AFL-CIO President Steven Tolman said both candidates have strong labor records. He said the union will work to defeat whichever Republican candidate wins the GOP primary.

Lynch in particular had hoped to get the endorsement.

Lynch was an ironworker for 18 years before entering politics and has enjoyed strong union backing. A dozen labor-related PACS contributed at least $10,000 each to his campaign account during past election cycle.

Markey has also won union support, including the backing the Massachusetts Teachers Association.

On Tuesday, Lynch won the endorsement of the Massachusetts Nurses Association.

Copyright 2013 The Associated Press.