Pennsylvania Fire Fighters’ Political Power Rising Fast

October 23, 2007 – Just one year after starting its own FIREPAC, Johnstown, PA Local 463 fire fighters are already seeing a difference in their political influence. In fact, for the first time, candidates for city and county council sought Local 463’s endorsement.

“I am proud of the success we have had so quickly,” says Art Martynuska, president of Local 463 and chair of FIREPAC 463. “Last year, we were able to turn one candidate’s campaign around in a short time. I think that is why our endorsement has become a hot commodity.”

In 2006, Local 463 endorsed City Council candidate Ann Wilson. Only six weeks before the election, polls showed Wilson in last place. But thanks to strong Johnstown fire fighter support, Wilson won her seat on the council.

Local 463 members’ political savvy comes from what they learned at the IAFF Political Training Academy. Martynuska and FIREPAC 463 treasurer Neil Crossen are both graduates. “We learned everything there -- from how to create a candidate survey to demographic polling,” says Martynuska.

This year, Johnstown fire fighters have endorsed three candidates for the Pennsylvania Supreme Court and 14 other city and county candidates in the November election.

“In this election, win or lose, we will be making it clear that, as a political force, we are here to stay,” says Martynuska.

For more information about FIREPAC, click here. For more information on the IAFF Political Training Academy, click here.