Well, that didn’t take long.
A steady stream of diehard Christine Quinn supporters have endorsed Public Advocate Bill de Blasio, and plan to gather Thursday in Brooklyn for a “unity rally” to publicly stand behind the Democratic frontrunner — without waiting for the Board of Elections to finish its count in his close finish with ex-Controller Bill Thompson.
The event includes top labor leaders like Retail, Wholesale, and Department Store Union President Stuart Appelbaum.
He was an early and ardent Quinn supporter, who just a few weeks ago blasted de Blasio for lying about his early involvement in crafting living wage legislation.
But that’s the past now, Appelbaum told the News’ Erin Durkin: “It’s time for Democrats to come together and focus on November,” he said.
Also now backing de Blasio: Local 32BJ of the Service Employees International Union and the Hotel Trades Council.
“Last night, voters wanted change. They didn’t want someone seen as an incumbent [as Quinn was],” said 32BJ leader Hector Figueroa. “We feel that our issues won, and we can now coalesce around a candidate.”
Update
: Now too jumping to Team de Blasio: United Food and Commercial Workers Union Local 1500.
“Over the last few months, Bill de Blasio has articulated a progressive vision for New York City that the members of our Union fully support,” said union President Bruce Both. “[He] will make sure that those living on Main Street are not left behind at the expense of those prospering on Wall Street.”
IMAGES: ENID ALVAREZ AND DAVID HANDSCHUH/NEW YORK DAILY NEWS
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