Miami health care union offers helping hand to Alex Vindman

One of Miami’s most influential unions has thrown its support behind Democrat Alex Vindman in the race for U.S. Senate.

The SEIU Local 1991, which represents nurses, attending physicians and healthcare professionals in the Jackson Health System, endorsed the retired Army lieutenant colonel.

“Florida deserves leaders with the courage to do what’s right, even when it’s difficult,” said Martha Baker, President and Executive Director of SEIU 1991.

“Alex Vindman risked the career he spent 20 years building because he refused to stay silent in the face of a President’s abuse of power. That kind of integrity and commitment to our democracy is exactly what Florida needs in Congress. SEIU 1991 is proud to endorse Alex Vindman for United States Senator.”

Vindman is aiming to unseat U.S. Sen. Ashley Moody, a Republican who was appointed to the seat by Gov. Ron DeSantis and now faces voters in November.

The union’s endorsement comes at a critical moment, just ahead of the August 18 Democratic Primary, where Vindman faces a challenge from progressive state Rep. Angie Nixon for the party’s nomination.

Vindman welcomed the backing from the Miami-based labor group. His campaign highlighted his support for the Protecting the Right to Organize Act, a key priority for the national SEIU, and noted his push to expand Occupational Safety and Health Administration protections for workers in large facilities.

“SEIU 1991 is the backbone of South Florida’s healthcare system, and I am honored to receive their support,” said Vindman.

“Every day, our nurses, doctors, and healthcare workers witness the devastating impact of the healthcare crisis career politicians like Ashley Moody have created in Florida. I refuse to sit on the sidelines. In the U.S. Senate, I’ll fight every day to lower healthcare costs, expand healthcare coverage, and ensure our healthcare workers have the resources they need to care for hard-working Floridians.”

Vindman’s healthcare platform centers on lowering the cost of coverage and prescription drugs, a message aimed squarely at voters concerned about rising medical expenses.