Operating Engineers Local 138 Endorses Mike LiPetri in Race Against Rep. Tom Suozzi

The International Union of Operating Engineers Local 138 endorsed Mike LiPetri, the Republican former New York state assembly member running against Rep. Tom Suozzi in New York’s suburban swing district that covers parts of Long Island and Queens. Local 138 Business Manager John Duffy said the union’s 1,500 members support LiPetri because he shows the resolve needed in Washington.

“We need leaders in Washington with guts — people who aren’t afraid to roll up their sleeves to get the job done, no excuses,” Duffy stated. ” LiPetri, who is backed by President Donald Trump and is part of the National Republican Congressional Committee’s flagship candidate program, faces a June 23 primary challenge from attorney Gregory Hach.

He said the endorsement signals further labor support ahead.

“I think you’ll see [more unions] fall in line with us knowing that we stand with the men and women who work hard to build our country,” LiPetri told Fox News Digital. The seat is viewed by national Republicans as a top target. Trump carried the district by just over four points in 2024 while LiPetri ran three points behind Suozzi.

LiPetri described the contest as decisive for House control. “This seat can literally decide the fate of the majority,” he said. ” LiPetri is drawing contrasts with Suozzi on immigration, education policy and taxes.

He noted that Suozzi joined Democrats in opposing additional funding for ICE and CBP during a months-long standoff over immigration spending. ” Suozzi also voted with Democrats against legislation barring biological males from women’s sports in K-12 schools and against a bill directing construction of a women’s history museum on the National Mall.