Chicago Fire Fighters Union Backs Preston in IL-02 Congressional Race (Chicago, IL) – The Chicago Fire Fighters Union Local 2 has unanimously endorsed Illinois State Sen. Willie Preston in the race for the 2nd Congressional District, praising his labor background and what union leaders described as a fearless, working-class approach to public service.
Local 2 President Pat Cleary said the decision was straightforward, calling Preston “the only card-carrying union member in this race” and someone who understands the struggles of working families.
“He’s not a professional politician or party insider,” Cleary said. “He talks like, thinks like and lives like the people he seeks to serve. Willie is a real union man and family man who, like us, always runs toward trouble. The House of Labor needs more authentic champions like Willie Preston.”
The union also released a video message titled “Willie Walks the Walk,” produced in conjunction with the endorsement.
Preston, who was elected to the Illinois Senate in 2022 after a heavily outspent campaign, thanked Local 2 for its support.
“The brave men and women of Chicago Fire Fighters Local 2 are always there for Chicago, and I’m honored by their endorsement,” he said.
Before entering politics, Preston worked as a union janitor, butcher and carpenter. The father of six has positioned himself in the congressional race as a candidate rooted in the labor movement and everyday working-class experience.
Chicago Fire Fighters Union Backs Preston in IL-02 Congressional Race
