Firefighters Union Endorses Cilley for Governor

The union that once endorsed conservative Republican Craig Benson for governor will now line up behind a Democrat: Jackie Cilley.

In an endorsement announcement at the Puritan Backroom in Manchester, the Professional Firefighters of New Hampshire cited Cilley's experience and her middle class roots as a native of Berlin, N.H.

"She gets it," PFFNH President Dave Lang said after the event Wednesday.

The union represents 42 locals and 2,000 active and retired firefighters and emergency medical responders. Its membership is comprised of Democrats, Republicans and undeclared voters, thus its endorsement of Democrats and Republicans alike – the union has previously endorsed Republican Judd Gregg, the former U.S. senator and governor.

Cilley thanked the union for its endorsement and firefighters for serving, and promised to rebuild New Hampshire's economy.

"You are on the front lines and will always have a place at the table," she said.

"We have a state to make right," Cilley said. "We have to make sure we offer a quality education, provide quality infrastructure, a clean environment, and that everyone feels safe in New Hampshire."

Cilley is vying for the Democratic nomination for governor against fellow former state Sen. Maggie Hassan and Bill Kennedy. The state primary is Sept. 11.