International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employes Endorses State Treasurer Phil Angelides for Governor of California

PALM HARBOR, Fl., Feb. 8 - The largest entertainment craft union in California representing 40,000 workers in the state, the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employes, Moving Picture Technicians, Artists and Allied Crafts of the United States, Its Territories and Canada (IATSE) today (February 8) announced its endorsement of State Treasurer Phil Angelides (D) for Governor of California.

"Good, family-supporting, well-paying jobs top the list that Phil Angelides has for the state of California," said Thomas C. Short, International President of the IATSE, after the General Executive Board of the IATSE and its California Locals voted to support Mr. Angelides. "He envisions a California with even more jobs in the entertainment industry, first class schools, affordable health care for working families, and protections for our environment. The welfare of all Californians is his only special interest." The courage of his convictions and the consistency of his political beliefs have earned Phil Angelides the support of the IATSE's California Locals and the IATSE General Executive Board meeting this week in Palm Harbor, Florida. Mr. Angelides took on the current Governor when he attempted to silence labor's voice with the recent statewide ballot propositions.

"No one in organized labor will forget Phil Angelides's spearheading the opposition to the union-busting Proposition 75," added International President Short. "Workers in film, television, and stagecraft well remember his active, consistent, and continuing support for tax incentives that will, when enacted, make the entertainment industry even stronger and increase the number of entertainment jobs in California."

As State Treasurer, Phil Angelides has demonstrated true leadership in the fight against corporate abuse and fraud. He has proven himself a fiscal conservative with the people's money. His vision for a stronger California includes reforming the state's educational system and reestablishing the state's Quality Education Commission.

So, it is for these and other reasons that the IATSE and its California Locals are endorsing Phil Angelides to be the next Governor of the State of California.

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