Pension legislation vote costs Sweeney, Norcross union support

Turns out the big compromise Democrats Donald Norcross and Stephen Sweeney made when they voted with New Jersey Republicans in favor of pension and benefits legislation for public workers is going to cost the pair more than anticipated.

The statewide AFL-CIO has pulled support for both senators, who represent four South Jersey counties between them. AFL-CIO represents 30 unions of public- and private-industry members, and the lack of support means Norcross and Sweeney aren’t likely to get direct campaign funds from the coalition or its labor volunteers.

NJ.com’s report includes responses from Norcross and Sweeney, who both focused on their support of pro-labor policies like card-check, minimum wage legislation and paid family leave.