Askew doesn't want early nod from labor

Presidential contender Reubin Askew told AFL-CIO leaders an early endorsement by organized labor could be counterproductive in Democratic primary elections next year.

The former Florida governor, one of six announced presidential candidates, met with the the AFL-CIO Executive Council and asked for their support but not their endorsement. During the primaries, he said, a candidate seen to be obligated by way of a labor endorsement might find his credibility with business leaders impaired.