From the House of Labor…

…via Michigan for Edwards.

"Our members are emphatic in their support for Senator Edwards, and anxious to get involved."

Noel Beasly, manager of the Regional Joint Board, announcing the UNITE-HERE Midwest Region endorsement of John Edwards.

It's a big'un…

The Midwest Regional Joint Board represents over 50,000 workers in clothing factories, hotels and restaurants, sports venues, gaming casinos, airports, laundries, warehouses and auto parts facilities, etc. in 11 states including Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, and Wisconsin (there are two independent locals in Chicago who are not part of the Midwest Board and have not endorsed anyone). Beasley said the board's support for Edwards was longtime and unanimous.

The Chicago and Midwest Regional Joint Board plans to go to work for the former North Carolina senator immediately -- with volunteers, staff and financial assistance -- and will work in conjunction with other unions including the SEIUs that cover the territory and have endorsed Edwards (Iowa, Ohio, Michigan and Minnesota). Beasley states that they should have 40 to 50 volunteers and staff in Iowa within a week.

Welcome aboard, Brothers & Sisters, and congrats to Senator Edwards.