The Hawaii Teamsters and Allied Workers Union Local 996 endorsed Mayor Mufi Hannemann yesterday, echoing the union's 2004 endorsement of Hannemann.

"In 2004, we endorsed Mufi Hannemann because we believed he was the best qualified and most experienced candidate for the job," said Teamsters President Ron Kozuma. "In 2008, we still believe this more than ever. In the past four years, he's proven himself to be a man of action who has delivered on his promises, and we look forward to working with him in the years ahead."

Kozuma cited Hannemann's support for Oahu Transit Services' new five-year contract that was approved earlier this month.

"It was so refreshing to be able to conduct our negotiations without acrimony or controversy," Kozuma said. "Mayor Hannemann and his administration were very proactive in their efforts to ensure that monies were available in the budget."

OTS President Roger Morton added, "Mayor Hannemann has always been a strong supporter of TheBus, TheBoat, and our Handi-van services. Under his leadership, O'ahu residents will benefit immensely. We know he will work with OTS to ensure that O'ahu residents have quality, reliable, and efficient mass transit options available to them."

The Hawaii Teamsters and Allied Workers Union Local 996 represents about 6,000 employees from nearly 60 different companies across the Islands.

"From the OTS workers who keep our city moving to the hospital workers who keep Hawai'i healthy, I value their hard work," Hannemann said. "I am very pleased to have their support once again."