SEIU Local 888 Committee on Political Action

The COPA Committee is made up of members who participate in the union’s political program. The committee meets at the union hall on the third Tuesday of every month at 6:00pm to consider candidates, plan for actions, and discuss political matters of importance to the union.

Endorsement decisions are made by the COPA Committee in consultation with union officers and the political director. A candidate must receive a majority vote plus one to win endorsement.

Who Can Participate?

All Local 888 members—including staff—are welcome to join the COPA Committee. However, only those who contribute to COPA through voluntary payroll deduction may vote on endorsements.

Election Forums

For major races—like Congress, Mayor, or City Council At-Large—the COPA Committee may host public forums. These allow members in good standing to hear directly from candidates and evaluate their support for union priorities. Member feedback from forums helps guide the COPA Committee’s decisions.

COPA Sub-Committees

Because SEIU Local 888 is a statewide union, the COPA Committee may convene regional sub-committees to focus on local races. These groups help vet candidates and make recommendations to the full committee.

COPA Participation

To participate in COPA, members must sign up for a voluntary payroll deduction. There is no minimum contribution. Every dollar builds our political strength.

📋 How to Get Endorsed by SEIU Local 888

If you’re a candidate seeking SEIU Local 888’s endorsement, follow this checklist to stay on track:

• ✅ Write a formal request letter to the Political Director
• ✅ Complete the SEIU 888 Candidate Questionnaire
• ✅ Return your questionnaire by the deadline
• ✅ Attend an endorsement interview with the COPA Committee*
• ✅ Await a majority vote from COPA members who contribute

*Interviews may be waived depending on timing or race size

The COPA Endorsement Process

Open Seats

For candidates running in open races (no incumbent), the following steps are required:

1. Send a letter to the SEIU Local 888 Political Director requesting endorsement.
2. Complete and submit the candidate questionnaire on time.
3. Attend a COPA Committee meeting for an endorsement interview.*

*The COPA Committee may choose to endorse without an interview depending on the timing and scope of the race.

Incumbents

For incumbents running for re-election:

• If you were endorsed in the past two election cycles: Only a letter to the political director is required.
• No interview is needed unless requested by the committee.

For incumbents seeking open seats: You will follow the same process as new candidates (letter, questionnaire, and possible interview).

Send Endorsement Requests To:

George O'Toole
Political Director
SEIU Local 888
25 Braintree Hill Park, Suite 306
Braintree, MA 02184

Email: gotoole@seiu888.org