SACRAMENTO, CA / ACCESS Newswire / September 23, 2025 / The Western States Council of Sheet Metal Workers, representing tens of thousands of skilled tradespeople in the building trades and manufacturing industries, today announced its endorsement of former Congresswoman Katie Porter for Governor of California, citing her strong record of standing with working families on infrastructure, housing, and clean energy investments.

"Katie Porter is the kind of leader California's blue-collar workers have been waiting for," said Rick Werner, President of the Western States Council of Sheet Metal Workers. "Time and again, she's sought out labor's voice when she was in Congress and made sure our concerns were part of the conversation."

The Western States Council of Sheet Metal Workers joins a growing list of labor unions and community leaders who believe Porter, the clear frontrunner in the race, is the best choice to move California forward.

"Katie has proven she isn't afraid to take on the status quo," said Fernando Ochoa, Political Director. "California workers deserve a Governor who will challenge special interests, fight for fairness, and ensure that the state's major investments benefit the very people who build California - its union workforce. We are ready to mobilize and do everything possible to help her win."

"Katie Porter has always been a fighter for working families," said Vince Sugrue, State Legislative Director. "In Washington, she consistently sought input from labor and worked to ensure workers' voices were heard on legislation impacting jobs, healthcare, and retirement security. We know that as Governor, she will continue to put working people first and ensure that California leads the nation in creating good-paying, union careers."

During her time in Congress, Porter was a proven advocate for labor. She has pledged to bring that same tenacity to Sacramento, promising to lower costs and create family-sustaining jobs with California's investments in infrastructure, housing, and clean energy.

"I'm grateful for the support of the Western States Council of Sheet Metal Workers and their members all across California," said Katie Porter. "Hardworking union labor is the backbone of our state's economy, and we have to make sure that workers and their families can afford to live and thrive in California for years to come. As Governor, I'll tackle our cost crisis head-on by lowering the cost of housing, child care, groceries, and health care - making it easier for Californians to get by."

About the Western States Council of Sheet Metal Workers

The Western States Council of Sheet Metal Workers, under the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail, and Transportation Workers (SMART), represents tens of thousands of skilled tradespeople across California in the building trades and manufacturing industries. Members fabricate, install, and service the HVAC and architectural systems that keep schools, hospitals, businesses, and homes safe, healthy, and efficient. The union also represents manufacturing workers advancing California's clean transportation future.

SOURCE: Western States Council of SMART