New York's umbrella teachers labor organization on Thursday endorsed Lt. Gov. Antonio Delgado's campaign for a full term as early voting is set to begin in the statewide primary. 

The nod from the New York State United Teachers union follows key endorsements from politically active labor groups in the state, including 32BJ SEIU and the Hotel Trades Council. 

“Lt. Gov. Delgado has shown since his time in Congress that he is an ally of NYSUT members, and he continues to stand with us now that he’s joined Gov. Hochul’s administration,” NYSUT President Andy Pallotta said. “Lt. Gov. Delgado is a champion of the vital role of public education in our society and the public servants who dedicate themselves to bettering their communities. The Hochul-Delgado ticket is formidable, and we look forward to working with the administration for the next four years as we seek to strengthen our public school, college and hospital systems to ensure all New Yorkers have access to high-quality services.”

Delgado was selected by Gov. Kathy Hochul earlier this year to replace former Lt. Gov. Brian Benjamin, who is facing bribery and fraud charges. Benjamin has entered a not guilty plea. 

A former congressman from the Hudson Valley, Delgado faces activist Ana Maria Archila and former New York City Councilwoman Diana Reyna in the June 28 primary. Early voting begins Saturday. Archila is the preferred running mate of New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams and Reyna is running in an informal ticket with U.S. Rep. Tom Suozzi. 

The victors of the statewide primaries for governor and lieutenant governor form an official ticket for the November general election. 

“I am so proud to have earned the endorsement of NYSUT,” Delgado said. “Our state could not function as it does without the teachers, faculty, professional staff, and health care staff that make up NYSUT, so it is incumbent upon us to be partners to them in state government by supporting fair wages and protections for these frontline workers.”