Split Opinions Prevent Union Endorsement
The Northeast Pennsylvania Building & Construction Trades Council is not endorsing a candidate in this year’s fiercely-contested battle for the 8th Congressional District due to split opinions among leaders of the council’s 14 unions, according to council President Warren Faust.
Faust described the attendees at a recent gathering as a "good mix of Republicans and Democrats," noting that council members identify as Republicans, Democrats, and independents. The decision not to issue an endorsement reflects the diverse political affiliations within the organization's leadership.
Candidates Attend Friday Gathering
Republican Rep. Rob Bresnahan Jr. and Democratic Mayor Paige Cognetti both attended a Friday gathering arranged by the building trades council in Wilkes-Barre on Oct. 16, 2026.
The event drew a significant contingent of state legislators and local officials. State legislators attending included Sen. Marty Flynn (D-22), Sen. Lisa Baker (R-20), Rep. Brenda Pugh (R-120), Rep. Alec Ryncavage (R-119), Rep. Jim Haddock (D-118), Rep. Dane Watro (R-116), Rep. Bridget Malloy Kosierowski (D-114), Rep. Kyle Donahue (D-113), Rep. Kyle Mullins (D-112), and Rep. Tara Probst (D-189).
Other attendees included Luzerne County District Attorney Sam Sanguedolce, Luzerne County Controller Tim McGinley, and Luzerne County Council members Jimmy Sabatino, Brittany Stephenson, Joanna Bryn Smith, Patty Krushnowski, and John Lombardo.
Bresnahan Highlights Longstanding Ties
During the event, Bresnahan addressed the council's history with his office, stating that the group had a "long-term existing relationship with Congressman Cartwright" when he initially ran for the seat. He emphasized that the council knows he is "always a phone call away," underscoring his accessibility to labor leaders.
Bresnahan also highlighted the economic importance of the sector, stating that skilled trades are vital for production in Northeastern Pennsylvania. His comments focused on maintaining open lines of communication with union leadership to support regional manufacturing and construction goals.
Cognetti Focuses on Labor Security
Mayor Cognetti used the platform to outline her priorities regarding workforce development. She stated that it is important for legislators and candidates to work together to ensure labor has jobs, wages, benefits, and secure retirement.
Cognetti said she needs to grow union opportunities across the region and educate children about professions in the trades. Her remarks centered on long-term workforce planning and ensuring that educational pipelines feed into high-demand trade careers.
Historical Context of Union Support
The current lack of endorsement stands in contrast to previous election cycles. The Northeast Pennsylvania Building & Construction Trades Council endorsed Matt Cartwright in the 8th District election two years ago, which Bresnahan won. That prior endorsement highlights the shifting dynamics within the council as it navigates a divided membership base in the current race.