Industry groups join forces to throw support behind Spitzer.

In a rare show of solidarity, major players in New York's construction and design industries are coming together to support New York state attorney general Elliot Spitzer's run for governor. The American Council of Engineering Companies, the General Contractors Association of New York, the Building & Construction Trades Council, the Building Trades Employers' Association and the New York Roadway Improvement Council, and the New York chapter of the Architects Institute of America will all co-host a fundraising breakfast for Spitzer on September 13, 2006.

The organizations cited Spitzer's familiarity with the industry and support of measures such as last year's Transportation Bond Act, which cleared the way for major infrastructure improvements in the state. Industry organizations also banded together behind that bill, but say the movement for Spitzer is even more unique.

"We have never come together as an industry for a fundraising event for a political candidate," said Richard T. Anderson, president of the New York Building Congress. "It demonstrates [Spitzer's] enormous interest in, and support throughout, the construction industry."

"At several events over the past year, Eliot Spitzer has made clear his knowledge of energy, transportation, building and urban design issues important to all of us," said AIANY president elect Joan Blumenfeld in a statement. "What's more, he has proposed initiatives for reform that will improve conditions for the City's future economic development and the creation of livable and sustainable communities."

In a letter to the industry groups, Spitzer said he was "very grateful" for the show of support..

"It is an honor to have this widespread support," Spitzer said in a letter to the groups. "As Governor, my top priority will be growing our state's economy. Improving our infrastructure is a critical component of this development."

While news of the powerful New York construction and design industry's support is no doubt welcome, Spitzer could hardly be said to be in dire need of the assistance. He has maintained double-digit leads in the polls over his both rivals, Democrat Tom Souzzi and Republican John Faso.