IATSE Local 59 Endorses Bill O’Dea for Mayor of Jersey City

The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 59, representing stage employees, moving picture technicians, artists, and allied crafts across Hudson County, has officially endorsed Bill O’Dea for Mayor of Jersey City.

“I am deeply honored to receive the endorsement of IATSE Local 59 and the hardworking men and women who make up this proud union,” said O’Dea. “Nearly four decades ago, I fought to save the Landmark Loew’s Theater in Journal Square because I understood the vital role arts and culture play in our community. Today, as the Loew’s undergoes its $105 million restoration, I remain committed to ensuring it reopens and operates fully with union labor. Jersey City deserves nothing less.”

O’Dea has been a longtime advocate for union jobs and the entertainment industry. As a councilman and commissioner, he has championed legislation to expand film tax credits, supported efforts to bring new film production to New Jersey, and backed the development of what will be the largest film studio in the United States, currently under construction in neighboring Bayonne. These efforts have already brought dozens of productions to the region, generating hundreds of high-paying jobs for local union workers.

“IATSE Local 59 knows Bill O’Dea is a true friend of the entertainment industry and working families,” said Greg Hancox, President of IATSE Local 59 in a letter of endorsement. “Bill supported state legislation creating tax credits for film production in New Jersey. This has created dozens and dozens of productions to be shot in Jersey creating hundreds of high paying jobs. It is for these reasons we proudly endorse Bill O'Dea to be the next mayor of Jersey City. O’Dea has also been endorsed by numerous other local unions such as the Hudson County Building Trades Council, Jersey City Educational Association, Teamsters Local 560, Local 1199J, National Union of Hospitals and Health Care Employees AFSCME 1199 and 32BJ SEIU. The endorsement today underscores O’Dea’s strong record of supporting labor unions, the arts and investing in the cultural and economic vitality of Jersey City.