Having worked with the SEIU in the past, I can tell you this: their endorsement of Jeff Merkley's U.S. Senate campaign is huge. Not only is it a symbolic victory for the campaign, as the union's one of the largest in America, but it also is practical. SEIU means activism, boots on the ground, people on the phones, and a critical advantage for any would-be public servant lucky enough to receive their endorsement.

Back in Los Angeles, the healthcare workers of the SEIU locals I was involved with were all-in types. Not only were they 100% dedicated to their healthcare recipients, but they worked extra hours on campaign after campaign, working to elect progressive, labor-oriented candidates. On every level, from State House all the way up to President, the members of the SEIU know how activism is done and know that their effort is required to elect progressive candidates.

And that is why the Jeff Merkley campaign is celebrating. They know that, when the SEIU stands with a candidate, that candidate has the potential for electoral greatness. With the force of organized labor at his back, Jeff Merkley's candidacy just got a huge boost. Indeed, the SEIU and its ability are renowed:

“Widely seen as the nation's most politically active union," according to The New York Times, SEIU won 70 percent of competitive races in 2006. During the last Presidential race, SEIU registered over 4 million new voters and its members knocked on 10 million doors.

Four million new voters. 10 million doors. These are jaw-dropping numbers. That Oregon members of this massive, united front have put their strength behind Jeff shows us something about his character and values. Indeed, as local 503 political director Arthur Towers says:

Jeff has been on the frontline in Oregon fighting the same special interests that control Washington D.C. He understands the challenges working people face and is building a campaign organization that can defeat Gordon Smith. We need a proven winner in the U.S. Senate - someone who is ready to go to the mat for working people and do what's right for Oregon.

That's damn straight. Let's send Gordon Smith back where he belongs. And, you know what: with labor like the SEIU and hard work on the ground, I think we can do it with Jeff Merkley.

(hat tip to Sarah at Lefty Lane)