Western New York AFL-CIO Area Labor Federation (WNYALF) President Denise Abbott, Communications Workers of America (CWA) Local 1168 President Cori Gambini & Buffalo Teachers Federation (BTF) President Richard Nigro have made City & State’s list of most influential New York State’s Labor Leaders.

From City & State New York, a media organization dedicated to covering New York’s local and State politics and policy: Solidarity is a fundamental principle for Labor Unions. Unionized Workers have gone on Strike over the past year in warehouses and factories, on the docks and on public transit, in hospitals and in legal aid organizations - and won. Public Sector Unions large and small have teamed up to secure more generous benefits. And some Labor Leaders are working together to address broader issues, such as skyrocketing health care costs, the affordable housing crisis and the clean energy transition. Of course, Unions weren't always on the same page. Many faced difficult endorsement decisions, from the Presidential race to the New York City Mayoral Campaign. Challengers have emerged within Unions, with 1199 Service Employees International Union (SEIU), Transit Workers Union (TWU) Local 100 and the Suffolk County Association of Municipal Employees handing the reins to newcomers. City & State’s Labor Power 100 highlights the most influential leaders in one of the most politically powerful spheres in New York. The list, researched and written in partnership with Journalist Aaron Short, features Union Chiefs who have scored major victories - new contracts, new legislation, new Members - and navigated tough circumstances. It also highlights a number of retirements that have paved the way for new leaders to ascend.

To View The Entire List, Go To: The 2025 Labor Power 100 - City & State New York

WNYLaborToday.com File Photos Of WNYALF President Denise Abbott & CWA Local 1168 President Cori Gambini. Photo Of BTF President Richard Nigro Courtesy Of The Buffalo Teachers Federation's Facebook Page.