Slattery Endorsed By Peabody Teachers' Union

The latest endorsement for state Senate candidate John Slattery comes from the Peabody Federation of Teachers.

A representative from the American Federation of Teachers Massachusetts announced the news Thursday afternoon.

“It is an honor and esteemed privilege to continue to be a strong advocate and supporter for quality public education,” said Slattery in a statement. “To have the support of the Peabody teachers, paraprofessionals and other school support staff is tremendous. My past record has always been one of a champion for working families and this endorsement is a testament to that cause.”

And teachers' union president Bruce Nelson evidently agrees.

“We are confident that John’s experience will prove invaluable to the district. As a Peabody resident, he is involved in the educational community and is a 'stakeholder' in our schools' continued success,” Nelson said.

“John’s ability to go to the Statehouse and immediately begin work on Day One, on behalf of his constituents is invaluable,” Nelson said, adding that the union believes Slattery will carry on with the same leadership and success Fred Berry has had in the Senate.

Slattery, a former state representative and city councilor for Peabody, is one of five candidates seeking to fill Berry's shoes in November. Berry is retiring this year after 30 years in office.

The 2nd Essex Senate district covers Beverly, Peabody, Salem, Danvers and Topsfield, and  by police and firefighters unions in Peabody, Salem, Danvers and Beverly, along with their respective state organizations.

Within the past few weeks, he received support from both police unions in his hometown of Peabody.

Slattery also picked up support from the New England Regional Council of Carpenters, Local Union 26 and Laborers’ Local 22, which both represent workers in the 2nd Essex District area, shortly after announcing his candidacy in March.

To date, only his opponent Salem City Council President Joan Lovely has announced any endorsements -- hers coming from the .

Slattery faces off with Mary-Ellen Manning, Lovely and Edward Carroll in a primary election Sept. 6. Republican Richard Jolitz of Beverly is the lone representative on the GOP ticket.