NEW YORK, Sept. 8 – The Obama for America campaign has signed with the IATSE to cover all events held in support of Barack Obama’s bid to become President of the United States. The contract, which became effective Sept. 5, includes jurisdiction over stagecraft, building, electrical, sound, rigging, audio-visual, properties, wardrobe, and other related work traditionally under the IA’s purview. It will run until Nov. 5, the day after the national election.
Discussions between the IA and the Obama campaign began after the IA announced its endorsement of the candidate on Aug. 13. IA Vice Presidents Brian Lawlor and J. Walter Cahill represented the union during negotiations.
The agreement will have the effect of reducing costs to the campaign because Obama for America will act as the employer and deal directly with local unions. It will also supply a qualified work force wherever candidates and their representatives appear. By dealing directly with local unions, as opposed to vendors, IA members will subsequently be more invested in the campaign, and according to Vice President Lawlor, “We’ll be doing our part to help elect Barack Obama.” .
