CENTRAL NEW YORK -- The New York State AFL-CIO is endorsing Democrat Dan Maffei to represent the 25th congressional district.

Maffei met with New York AFL-CIO president Denis Hughes Thursday at his campaign headquarters. Though Maffei has not been named the official democratic nominee, the AFL-CIO says he is the candidate best capable of representing the working class.

"We felt that if we get in there early and we're able to explain to our working men and women what the issues are, what the candidate's stand is on the issues, that candidate has a better chance of getting the vote of union members in this district," said Denis Hughes, New York AFL-CIO President.

"The working people of this community know that because of this endorsement they know that I am the candidate that's going to really create jobs and make sure that there are really good jobs in this area, good jobs that will attract young people, attract new business in the future, that's the key and the earlier that message can be delivered the better,” Maffei said.

The Democratic Party will formally endorse a congressional candidate later this month.