Rogers Picks Up Boston Teachers Union Backing

In one of the first big endorsements in the race to fill Will Brownsberger's seat in the state House of Representatives, Cambridge attorney Dave Rogers received the backing of one of the largest teachers unions in the state, even though Boston Teachers Union actually doesn't directly represents any educators in 24th Middlesex District.

But what the union does have is influence with other teacher labor unions and can provide financial backing to Rogers.

"I am honored to announce that the Boston Teachers Union has officially endorsed my candidacy for state representative. This is the first endorsement of any candidate by an important group, with many constituent members who live in the 24th Middlesex District," said Rogers, who has been doing some retail campaigning in Belmont, going door-to-door introducing himself to the community.

On Monday, Rogers attended the Board of Selectmen's meeting and threw his support behind residents challenging the tree-cutting plan by the developer of an apartment complex in Belmont Uplands.

“From first-time candidates for office to long-time members, these candidates represent the best of the best when it comes to representing working families and standing up for an education system that works for everyone regardless of wealth or geography,” said Richard Stutman, Boston Teachers Union.

“The BTU is proud to endorse these candidates and will immediately begin contacting members in their districts to find them volunteers and votes,” added Stutman.

Rogers is in the Democrat primary with Belmont residents Margaret Hegarty and Bobby Reardon.

"The endorsement of the BTU clearly demonstrates my deep commitment to public education. The teachers in the largest school system in the Commonwealth know that I have the skills and the commitment to advocate vigorously for a simple yet profoundly important idea: all kids deserve a great education. In our ever more competitive world, their futures and our economy demand nothing less," said Rogers.