Democrat Asks Labor to Hold Off on Endorsements

The chairman of the Democratic Party today asked organized labor to halt the controversial procedure of endorsing a presidential candidate before the party’s nominating convention.

The surprise move by new party boss Paul Kirk came in his keynote speech to the legislative and political conference of the Communications Workers of America. The 650,000 member CWA is one of the most politically active unions and led the move in the AFL-CIO to endorse Walter F. Mondale before the start of the 1984 primary season began.

“I urge you and the entire AFL-CIO to adopt a new approach and not to commit to a pre-convention endorsement of a Democratic candidate for President in 1988,” said Kirk, who was elected chairman with strong labor backing earlier this year.

“In my view, the trade union movement can strengthen the party’s nominee by refraining from an early endorsement,” he said. “Let the candidates use the primary process to develop and to demonstrate their own broad appeal and their own strong political base before giving one your full and united backing.”

Critics said the early AFL-CIO endorsement of Mondale branded the Democratic candidate as beholden to organized labor, but Kirk insisted that his proposal was not to be viewed as critical of what happened in 1984.

Initial reaction to Kirk’s proposal by labor was cool.

“His advice will be taken under consideration,” said CWA President Glenn E. Watts. “There will be a lot of discussion before a decision is made.”