Osborn Picks Up Key Union Endorsement

The news keeps getting better for Torie Osborn. The liberal activist, who is , announced Tuesday that she is being endorsed by the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 18, one of the state's biggest unions.

“Torie Osborn has the leadership skills, the vision and passion to help get California’s economy back on track, and we want to help her win,” IBEW Local 18 Business Manager Brian D’Arcy said in a statement. "When we back a candidate, it's because we know they have their priorities straight, and they’ll fight to create more good paying jobs."

IBEW Local 18 represents 8,000 public-sector employees, including utility workers, electrical workers and clerical workers.

“It is a real honor to have the support of IBEW Local 18,” Osborn said in a statement. “With the nation’s second-highest unemployment rate, currently at 12 percent, Californians are struggling to make ends meet. When I go to Sacramento, my top priority will be good paying jobs speeding up our economic recovery.”

The endorsement is one of many that Osborn, a first-time candidate, has received in recent months. In June, Assemblywoman Julia Brownley announced she is backing the candidate. Osborn has also been endorsed by Sheila Kuehl (who was the 41st District representative from 1994 to 2000), Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, Congresswoman Karen Bass and Los Angeles City Councilman Bill Rosendahl.

Last week, Osborn received endorsements from Agoura Hills Mayor Harry Schwarz, Agoura Hills Mayor Pro-Tem Dan Kuperberg and former Agoura Hills Mayor Ed Corridori.

Osborn raised $215,000 in the first half of 2011, bringing her total fundraising to $294,400.

The top two vote-getters from the 50th District primary contest, regardless of party affiliation, will face off in the November general election.

Go here to read more about California's 50th Assembly seat and redistricting:

• "GOP Makes Headway in Redistricting Challenge"

• "LA County to Pick From 3 Redistricting Plans"

• "New CA Legislative Districts Approved"

• "Redistricting Committee Releases Preliminary Final Maps"

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