FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
AUGUST 29, 2016
Working Families’ Issues to be Focus of Event
[CHARLESTON, WV.] The United Mine Workers of America (UMWA) and the West Virginia State Building and Construction Trades Council announced today that they have invited gubernatorial candidates Jim Justice and Bill Cole to participate in a debate in Charleston at the end of September.
Both candidates have already agreed to take part in two other debates hosted by the media. This third debate would focus solely on issues affecting workers in West Virginia. The two host unions represent coal miners and workers in the building trades industries and it will be those members who will make up the audience.
“As the General Election approaches, the working families of West Virginia would like to hear more from the gubernatorial candidates about their vision for the future and how their plans would affect our state’s working families,” said Joe Carter, UMWA International District 17 Vice President.
“Our membership is made up of Democrats, Republicans and Independents,” said ACT Director Steve White with the WV State Building and Construction Trades Council. “We’re pleased to offer this third debate so our members can hear first-hand where the candidates stand on issues like workplace safety and job creation.
The debate will be held at the Sheraton Four Points on either September 27 or 29. Candidates have been offered both dates for consideration. Additionally, a moderator has yet to be selected but the goal of both groups is to have an impartial professional facilitator or journalist.
