Labor Secretary Tom Perez has won the endorsement of the International Association of Fire Fighters in his bid to lead the Democratic National Committee.

IAFF President Harold Schaitberger praised Perez in a statement released Monday afternoon as a "son of immigrants ... a tireless advocate for civil and human rights."

"Tom Perez is the person who has the right mix of personal background, progressive values, experience and total commitment to all workers," he said.

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"Perez has made improving the lives of all workers his life's mission. To have Tom as the Chair of one of our nation's two major political parties would be a significant victory for workers across America."