After asking tough questions of all the Erie County Legislature candidates, and holding current elected officials accountable on their support of working families, 1199ers in western New York have endorsed William Conrad and Mike Schraft in the November elections.



“I think it’s important that we hold elected officials responsible for their action. They won’t get our support if they don’t have a plan to protect healthcare, good jobs and safe communities,” said Kaleida Health employee Annie Lewis.



Bill Conrad was born into a working-class family with deep roots in the Town of Tonawanda. His great grandmother ran a dry cleaner in Kenmore and his grandfather ran a small tile laying business in North Green Acres. Growing up, he watched his father work nights as a truck dispatcher and his mother work two part-time jobs as a bank teller and at the front desk at the Aquatic and Fitness center. He attended SUNY Fredonia where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and Social Studies Education. Bill has been teaching at Kenmore West High School since 2000, where he has coached wrestling and founded the school's award winning rugby club. He serves as Kenmore West's social studies department co-chair and a union representative for his fellow teachers.



Mike Schraft is a former U.S. Air Force Airman, U.S. Peace Corps volunteer and U.S. State Department official. Mike has dedicated his career to public service and wants to improve Erie County government through economic and community development.



“I believe both candidates would make great progressive additions to the legislature,” said Lewis. “ I believe in their plans, and I plan to work with our committee to see them get elected.”



To help elect two progressive leaders who will stand up for working families, please contact Maurice Brown at 716.995.3702.