Karen Ordinans, chairman of the Milwaukee County Board, called a news conference urging Dynacare to drop the suit. Howe gave his support even though one of Aurora's hospitals is the Burlington facility where the nurses had publicly demonstrated against the overtime policy. Much of Owley's power comes from her ability to turn out votes. Democrats tend to listen to labor leaders. D.C. Owley successfully argued for an endorsement of Vice President Al Gore but, she warned, don't say anything bad about Bill Bradley, in case he squeaks out the Democratic presidential nomination.
Unions normally declare their allegiance later in a campaign, after they can make some deals.
But the early endorsement could make Gore beholden - not a bad position in which to have the president, particularly if you are after approval of certain legislation. It gives him a boost he needs. She also belongs to the Wisconsin Industrial Relations Research Association. Those partnerships are good for the community. When politicians look to fill committee seats, Owley's name is often at or near the top of the list.