By Angela Hatton / Associated Press
Lexington, KY – The United Mine Workers of America will support Democratic Governor Steve Beshear for re-election, rescinding a previous endorsement of independent challenger Gatewood Galbraith. UMWA Vice President Steve Earle says the decision was made after "very long and thoughtful discussions" with rank-and-file members across Kentucky. The endorsement is a key one in a state that is home to some 18,000 active miners. Union leaders meeting in Lexington today (Thursday) voted unanimously to rescind the Galbraith endorsement and to support Beshear. Earle says the decision was based on Beshear being the "best opportunity" for working families. Beshear will faces one of three Republicans are vying for the GOP gubernatorial nomination.