The AFL-CIO, the nation’s largest labor federation, threw its support behind Rep. Keith Ellison’s bid to lead the Democratic National Committee, saying the liberal congressman “meets the high standard” set by its seven million members.

“He is a proven leader who will focus on year-round grassroots organizing to deliver for working families across America. Under his leadership, the Democratic Party will embody the values that our members stand for every day,” AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka said Thursday about the Minnesota Democrat.