New York, NY – February 27, 2014 – Today, the 104,000-member Office and Professional Employees International Union (OPEIU), AFL-CIO, announced its endorsement of Kevin Strouse for Congress in Pennsylvania’s 8th District as a Democrat.
“Kevin has proven he’s a true leader that can be counted on to make things happen for the working families of Pennsylvania,” said OPEIU International President Michael Goodwin. “He’s demonstrated his leadership skills and ability to meet any challenge that comes his way as an Army Ranger protecting our nation in Iraq and Afghanistan. His impressive background and concern for the working people of Pennsylvania makes him the best person to lead the state forward.”
"I am honored to have the support of the hardworking men and women of OPEIU,” said Strouse. “I know they must be frustrated by the lack of leadership from Congressman Fitzpatrick who has stood by while plants have closed and jobs have fled the 8th District. When I was with the Army Rangers I had to tackle tough problems and work as a team to get the job done, and I will bring that same dedication to work every day representing the hardworking families of Bucks and Montgomery counties."
OPEIU represents more than 104,000 employees and independent contractors in the United States, Puerto Rico and Canada in banking, insurance, higher education, shipping, hospitals, medical clinics, utilities, transportation, hotels, administrative offices and more.
OPEIU has a strong membership in Pennsylvania, representing healthcare professionals such as the podiatric physicians through OPEIU Guild 45/First National Guild of Healthcare Providers of the Lower Extremity and Registered Nurses and other nursing professionals through OPEIU Healthcare Pennsylvania Local 112. OPEIU also represents administrative employees at Merck Sharp & Dohme pharmaceuticals through the Merck Independent Union/OPEIU Local 1937.
Mr. Strouse is a former Army Ranger, CIA officer and veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan who lives in Bensalem, Pa., with his wife, Amy, and two young children, Walter and Charlotte. He earned his BA from Columbia University and a Masters in Security Studies from Georgetown University, graduating with honors.