"SEIU to split endorsement"

Ben Smith:

As I suggested yesterday, the SEIU is letting each of its constituent unions make its own endorsement. That diffuses internal union tensions, but also diminishes the political muscle of the most important player in "new labor," and it's a severe disappointment to the Edwards campaign.

From press release:
Citing Strength of Presidential Field, SEIU Locals to Decide on Endorsement of Presidential Candidates by State

Members and Leaders in Each State Will Decide Whether/Whom to Endorse

CHICAGO – Citing the strength of the presidential field on the key issues for working families, and the importance of the 2008 election on the future of America, SEIU local unions will decide on presidential primary endorsements on a state-by-state basis.

“The outcome of this election will decide whether we finally achieve comprehensive, affordable healthcare for everyone, whether we bring economic security and fairness to working people, whether we bring our sons and daughters home from a civil war in Iraq, and whether working people in America finally have the freedom to form unions without intimidation,” said SEIU President Andy Stern. “Given the importance of this election, we are encouraging members and leaders to act on their passion for the candidates and get involved on a statewide basis.”

UPDATE: One paragraph in the press release seems to make the Iowa and New Hampshire local endorsements quite important, in that they could invite bigger brother unions in for Edwards. A silver lining maybe, if just a lining: "Local unions in each state will decide in a democratic process whether and/or whom to endorse. Endorsement decisions will not be announced before October 15. States that endorse will engage in positive campaign activities on behalf of their endorsed candidate in their state."